“I Owe No One An Apology” – Senate Leader Bamidele Declares Unshakable Loyalty To Governor Oyebanji

According to Ireporter Online, the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, has stated that he owes no one any apology for his unwavering support for Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, emphasizing that their partnership has significantly advanced the state’s development.

Speaking on Saturday during the 2025 Ikogosi Day Celebration and the launch of a ₦1 billion Development Fund in Ikogosi Ekiti, the Senate Leader, who served as the chief launcher of the event, dismissed criticisms surrounding his alliance with Governor Oyebanji. He maintained that their relationship was founded on mutual respect, shared vision, and over three decades of friendship rather than political convenience.

Bamidele described the governor as “a man of integrity and humility” whose leadership continues to impact the lives of Ekiti citizens positively. “Those that are angry that I am supporting Governor Oyebanji, I appeal to them not to be angry. We cannot see what is good and not support it,” he remarked.

He further recalled that his bond with Oyebanji spans over 30 years, long before their political ascension, describing it as “a case of glory supporting glory.” The Senate Leader affirmed that he has no regrets about his loyalty to the governor, stressing that their cooperation represents a commitment to the state’s growth rather than a political conspiracy.

Bamidele highlighted that the synergy between the legislative and executive arms of government in Ekiti has resulted in numerous visible projects across the state. He revealed that shortly after the 2023 elections, Governor Oyebanji engaged the nine federal lawmakers from Ekiti and presented them with a list of priority projects for constituency intervention.

He explained that while the governor focuses on state-level projects, the lawmakers complement these efforts through federal initiatives, ensuring even development across the state. “Everywhere you turn in Ekiti, you will see a project either executed by the state government under Governor Oyebanji or by National Assembly members under his guidance,” Bamidele stated.

He also praised the governor’s dedication, noting that each time he visits to inspect projects, Governor Oyebanji personally accompanies him despite his busy schedule. “If people are saying all manner of things, forgetting that Ekiti is benefiting from our partnership, then I really don’t have any apology for such people,” he asserted.

In his response, Governor Biodun Oyebanji commended Senator Bamidele for his steadfast support and partnership, describing him as a dependable ally in advancing Ekiti’s progress. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to unity, teamwork, and inclusive governance, which he said have enhanced the delivery of democratic dividends across the state.

Oyebanji urged residents of Ikogosi and other communities to continue promoting peace and cooperation, noting that “no community can experience sustainable growth without unity.”

The event underscored a strong show of solidarity between Ekiti’s executive and legislative leadership, reflecting a united front ahead of the state’s evolving political landscape.