12th June, 2024
In the vibrant heart of Ekiti State, a movement is gaining momentum—one that seeks to redress decades of political imbalance and usher in a new era of fairness and representation. At the forefront of this movement is Shola Gabriel, a distinguished legal luminary, who is passionately advocating for a historic power shift to the Ekiti South Senatorial District in the 2026 gubernatorial elections.
Ekiti State, established in 1996, has witnessed an unbroken democratic journey since Nigeria’s return to civilian rule in 1999. However, this journey has largely sidelined Ekiti South in the rotation of gubernatorial power. Despite being the district with the highest number of local governments and housing the significant urban center of Ikere, Ekiti South has been conspicuously absent from the state’s highest political office.
Gabriel’s advocacy is not merely about regional pride; it is about rectifying a systemic exclusion that undermines the principles of equity and justice. The historical context is clear: the 2007 power shift that saw Governors Segun Oni and Kayode Fayemi from Ekiti North ascend to power was driven by a compelling call for balanced representation. Today, those principles demand that Ekiti South be granted its rightful place in the state’s governance.
The argument against a regional shift, citing Ekiti’s cultural homogeneity, fails to acknowledge the state’s rich diversity. Each senatorial district possesses unique cultural traits and economic potentials. The creation of these districts was intended to foster inclusive governance, not to perpetuate a cycle of exclusion.
Gabriel’s campaign is built on a foundation of fairness and the imperative of equitable power distribution. Drawing parallels with national politics, he references the significant 2023 presidential power shift to southern Nigeria, highlighting the necessity of similar actions within Ekiti State. For Gabriel, the 2026 elections represent a critical juncture for Ekiti South to step into a leadership role.
“The marginalization of Ekiti South is a glaring injustice that we can no longer afford to ignore,” Gabriel asserts. “Our people deserve the opportunity to contribute to the state’s leadership and development.”
His call to action is directed at all political stakeholders, urging them to embrace the moral and political necessity of ceding the gubernatorial slot to Ekiti South. Gabriel’s vision is not just about a change in leadership but about fostering a more inclusive and balanced political environment.
“The narrative that any candidate from any region can lead overlooks the structural inequalities that have marginalized Ekiti South,” Gabriel explains. “It is time to correct this imbalance and ensure that every region has a fair chance at representation.”
Gabriel’s movement is gaining traction, resonating deeply with those who recognize the importance of equity in governance. His appeal is not just to the political class but to the conscience of the entire state. He argues that genuine democracy thrives on inclusivity and the fair distribution of power.
“Power is not just to be sought; it must be shared equitably,” Gabriel emphasizes. “Just as the presidency needed to reflect the diversity of Nigeria, so too must our state leadership reflect the diversity of Ekiti.”
Gabriel’s advocacy is a clarion call for unity and collective action. He envisions a political renaissance where Ekiti South’s long-overlooked potential is finally recognized and harnessed for the state’s overall benefit. His message is clear: the future of Ekiti State depends on embracing fairness and inclusivity in its leadership choices.
“The time for Ekiti South to lead is now,” Gabriel declares. “We must rise together, united in our pursuit of justice and equity, to ensure that our region finally gets the representation it deserves.”
As the 2026 elections approach, Gabriel’s campaign for the gubernatorial power shift is more than a political strategy—it is a movement for justice, equity, and a brighter future for Ekiti South. His unwavering commitment to this cause continues to inspire and mobilize support, heralding a transformative era for Ekiti State’s political landscape.