Former Ekiti State Governor and ex-Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Kayode Fayemi, has called on opposition governorship candidates to collaborate with Governor Biodun Oyebanji in the interest of the state's continued development following the conclusion of the 2026 governorship election.
The appeal came after the declaration of Oyebanji as the winner of the highly anticipated poll, which attracted widespread attention across Ekiti State and beyond due to its political significance.
Fayemi specifically urged the Peoples Democratic Party candidate, Wole Oluyede, and the Social Democratic Party candidate, Bamidele Bejide, to put aside electoral differences and work together with the governor to advance the collective interests of Ekiti people.
According to the former governor, elections should not be viewed as permanent divisions among political actors but as democratic processes designed to allow citizens choose their preferred leaders.
He stressed that governance becomes more effective when political stakeholders unite around shared goals that promote development, stability, and progress for residents.
The 2026 governorship election witnessed participation from several political parties seeking to secure the state's highest political office through democratic means.
Following the release of official results, attention quickly shifted from campaign activities to discussions about governance, reconciliation, and the future direction of the state.
Fayemi noted that political competition is an important component of democracy but emphasized that collaboration after elections is equally essential for sustainable development.
He argued that the interests of the people should remain the highest priority regardless of political affiliations or campaign disagreements.
The former governor also commended residents of the state for their peaceful conduct throughout the electoral process and for demonstrating commitment to democratic principles.
He praised voters for participating in the election and helping to strengthen democratic institutions through their engagement in the political process.
Observers have described Fayemi's intervention as a call for political maturity at a time when many stakeholders are assessing the implications of the election outcome.
Political analysts believe post-election reconciliation often plays a significant role in reducing tensions and creating an environment conducive to governance.
They argue that inclusive leadership and constructive opposition can contribute positively to policy development and public accountability.
Governor Oyebanji's victory has been interpreted by supporters as an endorsement of his administration's policies and development initiatives implemented during his first term in office.
The governor campaigned on achievements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, and economic development while seeking a renewed mandate from voters.
His supporters maintained throughout the campaign that continuity would enable ongoing projects and reforms to be completed more effectively.
Opposition candidates, however, presented alternative visions and policy proposals aimed at convincing voters to choose different leadership options.
Despite the competitive nature of the contest, the election was largely characterized by calls for peaceful participation and respect for democratic processes.
Stakeholders repeatedly urged political actors and supporters to avoid actions capable of undermining peace before, during, and after the election.
The conclusion of the poll now presents an opportunity for leaders across party lines to focus on issues affecting citizens and the broader development agenda of the state.
Analysts note that cooperation among political stakeholders can help accelerate implementation of policies that address infrastructure deficits, youth unemployment, education challenges, and economic growth.
Many residents have also expressed hopes that political leaders will prioritize governance and service delivery now that the election cycle has concluded.
The call for unity comes at a time when Nigerians increasingly expect elected officials to move beyond campaign rhetoric and focus on measurable outcomes that improve living standards.
Observers argue that effective governance often benefits from constructive contributions from both ruling parties and opposition figures.
They note that democratic systems function best when political competition is balanced by cooperation on issues that affect public welfare.
For Ekiti State, the post-election period is expected to shape the tone of governance over the next four years and influence how various political actors engage with one another.
The willingness of stakeholders to embrace dialogue and collaboration could therefore play an important role in determining the pace of development and stability within the state.
As reactions to the election continue to emerge, Fayemi's message underscores a broader appeal for unity, reconciliation, and collective responsibility in advancing the interests of Ekiti people.
With the electoral contest now settled, attention is gradually shifting toward governance, policy implementation, and the expectations of citizens who will ultimately judge the success of the next administration.