Oyebanji Celebrates Segun Oni at 72, Praises His Legacy

ADO-EKITI, Nigeria — Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has congratulated former governor Segun Oni on his 72nd birthday, praising his contributions to the development of the state and his years of public service. 

Oyebanji described Oni as a respected statesman whose influence has extended beyond his time in government. The governor said the former governor had made notable contributions to Ekiti and Nigeria through his political and community leadership.

The birthday message was contained in a statement issued on Saturday, September 5, 2026, by Oyebanji’s Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, in Ado-Ekiti. 

According to the governor, Oni’s record includes people-focused policies introduced during his administration, particularly in areas such as workers’ welfare, infrastructure, healthcare and economic development.

Oyebanji also praised the former governor’s personal qualities, describing him as humble and committed to the welfare of ordinary people.

The governor said Oni’s contributions remain relevant to Ekiti’s continuing development and the wider national interest.

The former governor has maintained a visible role in Ekiti’s political affairs. In January 2026, Oni formally joined the All Progressives Congress after registering at his hometown of Ifaki-Ekiti. He had previously governed Ekiti from 2007 to 2010 under the Peoples Democratic Party and contested the 2022 governorship election on the platform of the Social Democratic Party. citeturn1search6

Oni subsequently supported Oyebanji during the 2026 governorship campaign. In May, he backed the governor’s re-election bid, saying Oyebanji had the support needed to become the first Ekiti governor to secure 

Oyebanji was re-elected in the June 20, 2026 governorship election, securing 319,224 votes, according to results announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission. citeturn1search

The governor’s latest tribute also follows his recent decision to honour former Ekiti governors through government infrastructure. In July, his administration announced that a newly constructed government building would be named after Oni, with the facility expected to be commissioned in October. cite

In his birthday message, Oyebanji wished Oni good health, happiness and many more years of service to Ekiti, Nigeria and humanity.

The tribute places Segun Oni’s 72nd birthday within a broader period of public recognition for the former governor and his role in Ekiti’s political history.

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