National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has said the victory of Governor Biodun Oyebanji in the Ekiti State governorship election and the recent bye-elections across the country were voters’ reward for the good performance of the party.
He also described the electoral victories as a clear vote of confidence in the APC, President Bola Tinubu administration, and ongoing reforms being implemented to reposition Nigeria for sustainable growth and prosperity.
The APC national chairman stated these in a release on Monday by his Special Adviser (Media and Information Strategy), Abimbola Tooki.
Ekiti Election as a reward
According to him, the outcome of the electoral exercises demonstrated that Nigerians were able to distinguish between temporary economic challenges associated with reforms.
He added that the outcome reflected a belief in the long-term benefits of responsible governance, economic restructuring, infrastructure development and institutional renewal being championed by APC, both at the states and federal levels.
Yilwatda stated: “The overwhelming victory recorded by our great party in Ekiti State and our remarkable success in the bye-elections across the country represent a powerful endorsement of the APC governance philosophy.
“These results affirm that Nigerians appreciate leadership that prioritises development, accountability, stability and the welfare of the people.
“The people of Ekiti State have once again demonstrated that performance remains the most potent campaign message in democratic politics.
“Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s resounding re-election is a reward for visionary leadership, inclusive governance, prudent management of resources and visible developmental achievements across the state.”
INEC, on Saturday, declared Governor Oyebanji the winner of the governorship contest after securing a commanding victory across the state.
This was as the party also recorded significant victories in five of the six bye-elections conducted across various states of the federation.
Yilwatda averred that the Ekiti result has further strengthened the APC narrative that performance-based governance remained electorally-rewarding, even amid difficult economic transitions.
“The Ekiti election has become a national reference point. It confirms that when governments deliver tangible results in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, youth empowerment, security and social development, citizens respond with renewed trust and overwhelming electoral support.
“This victory sends a clear message that governance, not propaganda, remains the most effective route to political legitimacy.
“The people of Ekiti have spoken loudly and clearly in support of continuity, stability and progress,” he added.
The APC national chairman described Ekiti State, under Governor Oyebanji, as one of the most compelling governance success stories in contemporary Nigeria.
To buttress his point, he cited sustained investments in road infrastructure, rural development, human capital advancement, healthcare delivery, agricultural productivity, workers’ welfare and ease of doing business.
According to him, the Oyebanji administration has successfully built broad-based political consensus while maintaining a strong focus on development outcomes, thereby creating an environment of stability and accelerated progress.
“Ekiti today stands as a shining example of how APC governments are translating public trust into measurable development outcomes.
“The progress of the state, under Governor Oyebanji provides a practical demonstration of our party’s commitment to people-centred governance,” he added.
Yilwatda further stated that the outcome of the two electoral exercises should be viewed within the broader national context of President Tinubu’s reform agenda, which he said, was gradually laying the foundation for a more resilient, productive and globally competitive Nigerian economy.
“Despite inheriting deep structural challenges, President Bola Tinubu has demonstrated courage and vision in implementing reforms that are necessary for Nigeria’s long-term prosperity.
“The confidence reposed in our party by voters across the country indicates growing public understanding and appreciation of these reforms and their future benefits.
“These victories are therefore not only electoral successes; they are validations of a governing philosophy anchored on bold leadership, responsible decision-making and sustainable development,” he stated.
The APC national chairman congratulated President Tinubu, Governor Oyebanji, APC leaders and members in the state and across the federation, as well as all candidates who emerged victorious in the bye-elections.
He also commended INEC, security agencies and the people of Ekiti State for the peaceful conduct of the election.
Yilwatda assured Nigerians that the APC would remain focused on delivering good governance at all levels and deepening democratic dividends for citizens across the country.
“Our message to Nigerians is simple: we have heard your voices, we appreciate your confidence and we shall continue to justify the trust you have placed in our party through impactful governance, economic renewal and inclusive national development.
“The APC remains committed to building a stronger, more prosperous and more united Nigeria.
“The victories recorded in Ekiti and the bye-elections reinforce our resolve to work even harder in service to the Nigerian people,” he added.
