Post by Samuel Olanipekun Ola (@sampekun50)

EKITI DECIDED, BUT EKITI DIVIDED
The people have spoken, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has spoken.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji has been declared the winner of the Ekiti governorship election, securing a historic second term in office. To his supporters, the result is a clear endorsement of his leadership and a sign that the people want continuity.
But while Ekiti has decided, Ekiti remains divided.
Across the state, celebrations erupted among supporters of the governor. Yet, in many homes, markets, campuses, and political circles, the mood is different. Some citizens have questioned the credibility of the process, alleging vote-buying, voter intimidation, electoral irregularities, and BVAS-related concerns. Others insist that the election reflected the genuine will of the people.
This is where the division begins.
How can one election produce such different reactions?
How can one side celebrate victory while another side mourns democracy?
Critics argue that a state renowned for its highly educated population, professors, intellectuals, and politically conscious citizens should demand more in terms of infrastructure, industrial development, electricity, employment, and security before granting another mandate. Supporters, however, insist that the governor has earned the trust of the electorate through his performance and connection with the people.
The truth is that elections are not won on social media, in newspaper columns, or in political arguments. They are won at the ballot box.
The market woman in Ado-Ekiti, the farmer in Ijero, the teacher in Ikole, and the student in Oye have all played their part. Their votes, rightly or wrongly, have produced a winner.
The deed has been done.
The celebrations have begun.
The debates continue.
For those who feel aggrieved, democracy provides a path. The courts remain open. If there is evidence of malpractice, let it be presented. If there was injustice, let justice prevail.
But beyond the arguments lies a bigger challenge.
Governor Oyebanji has won the election. The real task now is to win the hearts of those who did not vote for him. Political victories are temporary; public trust is lasting.
Ekiti has decided.
But only good governance can unite a divided people.
Only performance can silence critics.
Only results can heal political wounds.
And only time will tell whether this historic victory will be remembered as a triumph of democracy or another chapter in Nigeria's endless electoral controversies.

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