Ekiti Gov. Election: Oyebanji Emerges APC Sole Candidate

By Ayodele Oni

Ahead 2026 Ekiti governorship election, the state Governor Biodun Oyebanji has been confirmed as the All Progressives Congress (APC) consensus governorship candidate.

This follows an affirmation exercise held on Monday at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, Ado-Ekiti.

This is coming amidst ongoing protest in Abuja by women groups against the disqualification of other aspirants such as Kayode Ojo by the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The exercise saw 885 delegates from the 16 local government areas of the state endorsed Oyebanji, who is seeking a second term as governor.

The special nomination congress, supervised by a 10-member committee chaired by Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, officially ratified Oyebanji’s candidacy after the voluntary withdrawal of the only other cleared aspirant, Mrs Atinuke Omolayo.

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, served as deputy chairman of the committee, while Taiwo Sunmonu acted as secretary.

During the session, Senate Leader and APC stalwart, Opeyemi Bamidele, moved a motion for the ratification of Oyebanji’s nomination as the party’s consensus candidate.

“I, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, hereby move a motion that this Ekiti Special Nomination Congress ratify the nomination of His Excellency, Biodun Oyebanji, as the consensus gubernatorial candidate of the Ekiti State APC, according to Section 84, Subsection 9 of the Electoral Act, 2022. I so move,” he declared.

The motion was seconded by Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Adeoye Stephen, who described the decision as a historic moment for the party.

Reacting to the decision, Oyebanji sang worship to God alongside his wife as he dedicated the victory to his maker.

He also appreciated the committee, delegates, and President Bola Tinubu for their efforts and support for the development.

Delivering his acceptance speech, Oyebanji expressed gratitude to the party leadership and delegates for entrusting him with the ticket for a second time.

“I am honoured and appreciative of this rare privilege which you are giving for the second time.

“If words fail to fully express the depth of my excitement and gratitude, please forgive my bluntness; I will eternally be indebted to you all,” Oyebanji said.