Oyebanji made the appeal on Saturday during the 2026 Ikogosi Day celebration in Ikogosi-Ekiti, where more than ₦1 billion was raised towards the construction of the community’s Oba’s Palace.
The Governor, who reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to grassroots development, urged residents and community leaders to sustain their support for initiatives aimed at improving living conditions across the state.
Addressing the gathering, Oyebanji said Ekiti residents should reciprocate the Federal Government’s support for the state by turning out in large numbers to vote for Tinubu in the forthcoming presidential election.
He said: “Let me also remind us that January 16 is the presidential election, and we must come out en masse to vote for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He is a President who has assisted our state tremendously, and we must double the votes we secured during the governorship election for him.”
On the fundraising for the palace project, the Governor clarified that the state government had not made any financial contribution, while commending the Chairman and Chief Launcher of the celebration, Dr Tunji Olowolafe, for mobilising friends and associates to support the initiative.
Olowolafe reportedly secured donations totalling ₦906 million through his network of associates and well-wishers, with additional contributions from individuals, invited guests, indigenes and organisations taking the total amount raised beyond the ₦1 billion target.
Oyebanji expressed confidence that the palace project would be completed and commissioned before the next Ikogosi Day celebration in 2027.
He urged community leaders to ensure the judicious management and utilisation of the funds to guarantee the successful completion of the project.
The Governor also appealed to Ikogosi indigenes to maintain unity and continue working together to promote the development and prosperity of their community.
Speaking at the event, Olowolafe said he reached out to friends and associates across the country following his appointment as Chairman and Chief Launcher of the celebration, resulting in the ₦906 million donation.
He disclosed that the money had been paid into the community’s designated project account with a commercial bank.
According to him, the donors were encouraged by their confidence in Oyebanji’s leadership and his administration’s commitment to grassroots development.
Olowolafe also praised the transformation of Ikogosi, particularly developments at the Ikogosi Warm Springs and other infrastructure projects undertaken in the community over the past four years.
In her remarks, the Asaoye of Ikogosi, Chief Ayo Ademilua, who spoke on behalf of the community’s Regent, commended Oyebanji for his contributions to the town’s development.
She described the Governor as a worthy son of the soil whose commitment and achievements had brought pride to the community.
Ademilua urged indigenes to remain united and committed to the progress of their hometown, while appreciating Olowolafe and other supporters for their contributions towards the construction of the Oba’s Palace.
The event attracted several dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Adeoye Aribasoye; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Oyeniyi Adebayo; members of the State Executive Council; lawmakers and other prominent guests.
