By Leah Ndagi
Ekiti State governor and the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed optimism that he will secure more than 500,000 votes in the ongoing Saturday’s governorship election in the State.
Oyebanji spoke shortly after casting his vote alongside his wife, Olayemi, at Ward 06, Unit 03, Okelele, Ikogosi-Ekiti, at about 11:38 a.m.
The governor praised the turnout of voters, describing it as an indication that residents understood the importance of good governance and its impact on the future of the state.
Responding to questions on whether the APC could achieve its target of at least 500,000 votes out of the over 1 million eligible voters, Oyebanji said, “We should, if the processes work well, and everybody votes, we should cross that line. That’s what I’m saying here today. I have no idea about that.”
The APC had, during its campaign, stated that while it was aiming to win the election, it was also working towards securing a minimum of 500,000 votes for its candidate.
Commenting on the conduct of the election, Oyebanji expressed satisfaction with the process but urged voters to remain patient with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over reported delays and logistical challenges being experienced.
“Everything’s going on well. Definitely, I am satisfied. But I need to also appeal to our people to be patient with INEC,” he said.
“With all processes, there will be glitches. INEC has assured me, and I believe them, that all those glitches will be attended to. So I appeal to our people to exercise patience.
“They (INEC) have told me that nobody will be disenfranchised, that everybody who has come out will vote. But our people also need to cooperate with INEC and encourage them and be patient.”
The governor expressed confidence that, provided the electoral process proceeds smoothly and eligible voters are able to cast their ballots, the APC would surpass its ambitious 500,000 vote target in the election.
