The governor is the head of the executive branch of the Ekiti State Government.

The governor has a duty to enforce state laws and the power to either approve or veto bills passed by the Ekiti State House of Assembly, to convene the legislature and grant pardons.

Two people, Ayo Fayose and Kayode Fayemi served two non-consecutive terms in office.

Excluding acting governors, Navy Captain Atanda Yusuf served the shortest term in office of 9 months.

Under the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the governor is both head of state and government.