The Top 10 Richest Politicians In Ekiti State

Let’s be honest, when you hear the words “rich” and “politician” in the same sentence, your eyebrows naturally lift. And if you're Nigerian, they might even disappear into your hairline. Now, throw in a state like Ekiti—famous for brains, book smarts, and a bit of political pepper—and the gist gets even juicier.

Ekiti may be one of Nigeria’s smaller states in terms of landmass, but don’t be fooled. The politicians here are not playing on small levels when it comes to cash flow. In fact, some of them have bank balances that can comfortably compete with the so-called "big boys" from Lagos or Abuja. Whether they made their money through politics, business, or a “combination of both” (wink wink), one thing is clear: these people are loaded!

So, today we’re diving into the world of affluential Ekiti politicians—those who have used politics (and a bit of hustle) to build empires. We’ll look at the personalities behind the headlines, the controversies, the brains, and of course, the billions. This is not just a boring list of figures. Nope! This is gist, analysis, and some good ol’ Naija-style storytelling. Let’s go!

1. Kayode Fayemi – The Scholar Who Found Oil (Metaphorically)

First on the list is our very own former governor and brainy political heavyweight—Dr. John Kayode Fayemi. You see this man? He’s the type that’ll quote international philosophers during a campaign rally, and somehow, it still sounds convincing. A PhD holder in War Studies and a lover of books, he has served not once but twice as the governor of Ekiti State.

But don’t let the intellectual packaging deceive you—Fayemi has mastered the game of influence and strategic positioning. As a former Minister of Solid Minerals, a two-time governor, and a respected APC leader, he didn’t just accumulate political titles. He accumulated wealth. Plenty of it.

From political consultancy, international speaking gigs, investments, and other not-so-obvious deals, Fayemi is estimated to be worth several hundreds of millions of dollars. Let’s just say, he can buy a small private island if he wanted—and still have enough change for jet fuel.

2. Ayodele Fayose – Mr. “Stomach Infrastructure” Himself

Ladies and gentlemen, please rise for the king of vibes and political entertainment—Ayo Fayose. You may agree with him or not, but one thing you can’t do is ignore him. This former Ekiti governor brought the drama, the action, the chicken-eating photo ops, and yes, the controversial policies.

Fayose is rich—not just in theatrics but in real naira and kobo. His wealth is said to run into hundreds of millions as well, thanks to real estate, business ventures, and of course, being in the political system long enough to understand the “sweet spots.”

From the way he moves around in luxurious SUVs to his signature agbada that says “I’ve arrived,” Fayose’s financial strength is clear. He might have left the governor’s seat, but don’t be fooled—he’s still very much in the money loop.

3. Afe Babalola – The Legal Eagle with a Mountain of Wealth

Afe Babalola is that name you whisper with respect in legal circles. This man has done things in the legal world that many can only dream of. Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), founder of one of the best private universities in Africa (Afe Babalola University), and a philanthropist of epic proportions.

Is he a politician? Not in the elected sense. But his connections, influence, and regular presence in political matters qualify him for this list. With his multi-billion naira university, his sprawling estate, and decades of high-profile court cases under his belt, Babalola’s net worth comfortably sits in the hundreds of millions, possibly even hitting the billion mark.

In a state like Ekiti that prides itself on knowledge, Babalola is the professor emeritus of wealth and influence.

4. Segun Oni – The Quiet Rich Man

Now, Segun Oni doesn’t shout. He doesn’t trend on Twitter every other week. But make no mistake—he’s got money. A former governor of Ekiti State, a former deputy national chairman of a major political party, and a man with solid engineering credentials, Segun Oni is the kind of wealthy person that doesn't need to flaunt anything.

His background in engineering gave him an entry into lucrative contracts even before politics. Combine that with years of politicking and networking at the national level, and you have a man with deep pockets and deeper influence.

5. Femi Falana – The Human Rights Giant with Heavy Pockets

Ah, Femi Falana. The voice of the voiceless, the defender of the Constitution, and a thorn in the flesh of bad governments. But apart from shouting “Objection, My Lord!” in court, this man has also been stacking serious paper.

Falana’s chambers handle high-profile cases, both locally and internationally. He’s advised clients ranging from corporations to governments, and he’s got assets that reflect a life of strategic investments. He might not look like your typical wealthy politician, but trust me, Falana is more than comfortable.

6. Niyi Adebayo – The Classy Elder Statesman

Niyi Adebayo, Ekiti State’s very first civilian governor, is the classic example of a refined politician. Calm, calculated, and not one to chase unnecessary media clout. He has served in different capacities, including being a federal minister, and his political journey has given him plenty of opportunities to build wealth.

From his ties to elite circles in Lagos and Abuja to his quiet investments and property holdings, Adebayo is sitting on generational wealth. You may not hear him much in the news these days, but don’t be deceived—he’s still very much a financial force in Ekiti politics.

7. Biodun Oyebanji – The Current Occupant of the Money Chair

As the current governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji is the man of the moment. While he’s relatively new compared to some of the older big names, don’t count him out just yet. Oyebanji has been around government corridors for years—as SSG, as Chief of Staff, and now as governor.

He’s not exactly flashy, but he’s smart. Very smart. He’s making moves and building influence with a quiet but steady hand. And let’s be honest, anyone sitting on top of the state government budget—controlling appointments, approving contracts, and supervising billion-naira projects—is definitely not broke.

8. Michael Opeyemi Bamidele (MOB) – From the Bar to the Senate

MOB is not just a name; it’s a brand. A trained lawyer and a highly respected politician, Bamidele is one of the most visible Ekiti sons in national politics today. Currently a senator and Senate Majority Leader, he holds significant influence and pulls weight in legislative affairs.

His wealth has come from law, political appointments, real estate, and strategic alliances. He’s the kind of politician that understands how to mix brains with business. If you’re looking for someone who balances intellect with power—and backs it up with wealth—MOB is your man.

9. Abiodun Olujimi – The Woman Breaking the Boys' Club

In a male-dominated field, Senator Olujimi has carved a name for herself. She's not only a seasoned politician but also a powerful force in Ekiti's political landscape. Former Deputy Governor, House of Reps member, and current Senator, Olujimi has paid her dues.

Her wealth comes from years of public service, political consultancy, and of course, wise investments. She's proof that women can hold their own in both the power and money game. Olujimi remains one of Ekiti's most respected—and wealthiest—female politicians.

10. Femi Bamisile – Low-Key but Loaded

If you’re not paying close attention, you might overlook Bamisile. But insiders know he’s a man of means. Former Speaker of Ekiti State House of Assembly and currently a member of the House of Reps, Bamisile has used his positions to build influence and wealth.

He’s got fingers in a lot of pies—logistics, agriculture, real estate—and he’s gradually becoming one of the go-to figures in Ekiti politics. He doesn’t make too much noise, but his bank account probably sings loud and clear.

Final Thoughts – The Power-Plus-Money Formula

Ekiti may be a land of scholars and professors, but don’t be fooled—the money circulating among its political elite is nothing to joke with. Whether it's from law, engineering, education, or plain ol’ politics, these individuals have leveraged their positions to build wealth that will last generations.

This list isn’t just about flaunting riches. It’s a reminder that power, when combined with strategy and opportunity, often leads to wealth. And in Nigeria, especially in a politically aware state like Ekiti, that formula seems to be working perfectly.

So the next time you pass by a quiet politician in Ekiti and assume they’re just a civil servant, think again. They might just be the next quiet billionaire on this list.