Ahead of the June 20 governorship election, commercial motorcyclists, popularly known as Okada riders, and tricycle operators across Ekiti State have declared support for Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s re-election bid.
The transport operators also pledged to mobilise large votes for the governor, saying they would rally thousands of supporters from the grassroots to ensure his return for a second term.
The commitment was expressed during an engagement with the governor in Ado Ekiti on Wednesday, where union leader Kunle Asaolu said the administration had remained responsive to their needs and restored harmony through deliberate reconciliation efforts.
The transporters attributed their support to what they described as the governor’s people-oriented policies, improved dialogue with transport unions, and deliberate efforts to stabilise the sector, which they said had brought relative peace and stability to their operations across the state.
They further noted that the governor had consistently addressed their welfare concerns and fulfilled promises made to members of their associations, describing the relationship between the government and transport unions as stable and mutually beneficial.
In his response, Governor Biodun Oyebanji thanked the riders for their support and confidence in his administration, noting that the June 20 election was crucial for sustaining development in Ekiti State and consolidating the achievements of his government.
The governor also assured the transport operators of continued engagement with their associations, saying his administration would not relent in creating an enabling environment for their businesses to thrive while maintaining order and safety within the transport sector across the state.