Joseph Anifowose, the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) governorship candidate in Ekiti State, has withdrawn from the race and declared his support for Governor Biodun Oyebanji, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate.

Mr Anifowose announced his decision on Tuesday during an APC campaign rally in Igede Ekiti, Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government area.

He attributed his decision to the developmental achievements recorded by Mr Oyebanji’s administration in the last three and a half years.

He said the visible progress in infrastructure, governance and social services across the state convinced him that continuity was necessary to sustain the ongoing transformation in Ekiti.

According to him, Mr Oyebanji has shown remarkable leadership by fostering unity among political leaders and stakeholders to advance the state’s collective development.

Mr Anifowose disclosed that APM leadership, after consultations with members and executives across the local government areas, unanimously resolved to support Mr Oyebanji’s re-election bid.

Addressing supporters at the rally, Mr Oyebanji expressed confidence that the APC would secure a landslide victory in both the governorship and 2027 presidential elections in the state.

Mr Oyebanji said several road projects and other infrastructure being executed by the state and federal governments reflected the APC administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of Ekiti people.

The governor listed projects by his administration, including the Ikere-Ilawe road, Ikere-Igbara Odo road, Igbara Odo-Ikogosi road, Ilawe-Erijiyan road, and the rehabilitation of Ilawe General Hospital.

He also commended President Bola Tinubu for supporting the state through strategic appointments for Ekiti indigenes and ongoing federal projects, including the reconstruction of the Itawure-Aramoko-Igede-Ado road.

Mr Oyebanji disclosed that the power transmission stations at Ilupeju-Ekiti and Ijesa Isu-Ekiti, being executed by the federal government, were nearing completion and would improve electricity supply for residents and businesses in the state.

The governor urged residents to support the APC at both state and federal levels, maintaining that the ruling party remained best positioned to deliver sustained development and democratic dividends to the people. 

(NAN)