Ekiti 2026: APC Affirms Oyebanji as Consensus Candidate

Ado-Ekiti — The All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially affirmed Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, as its consensus candidate for the 2026 governorship election in the state.
The affirmation was made during a special nomination congress held on Monday at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, Ado-Ekiti, where 885 delegates from the 16 local government areas of the state endorsed Oyebanji’s candidacy.

The exercise, supervised by a 10-member committee chaired by Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, followed the voluntary withdrawal of the only other cleared aspirant, Mrs Atinuke Omolayo. Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, served as deputy chairman, while Hon. Taiwo Sunmonu acted as secretary.

During the congress, Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele moved the motion for the ratification of Oyebanji’s nomination, which was seconded by the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Stephen Aribasoye. Both described the decision as a demonstration of unity, maturity, and continuity within the ruling party.

Leaders Laud Oyebanji’s Performance and Party Unity

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Affirmation Congress Committee, Governor Ahmed Ododo, said Oyebanji’s affirmation reflected his “giant strides in governance” and the people’s trust in his leadership. He described the APC as a disciplined and cohesive political family capable of sustaining the state’s development.

Similarly, former Ekiti State Governor Dr Kayode Fayemi commended the development, describing the consensus adoption as a “symbol of political maturity and shared purpose” within the party. Fayemi hosted members of the state APC committee on consensus primaries ahead of the congress, where he called for collective commitment to unity and progress.

APC’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, also explained that the National Working Committee (NWC) approved the shift from direct primaries to consensus in accordance with party rules and the Electoral Act, 2022, following Omolayo’s voluntary withdrawal.

Oyebanji Pledges Continued Service to Ekiti People

Reacting to his affirmation, Governor Oyebanji expressed deep gratitude to the APC leadership, delegates, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for their unwavering support. He described the decision as a milestone in Ekiti’s political evolution and a vote of confidence in his administration.

“I am honoured and appreciative of this rare privilege given to me for the second time,” Oyebanji said. “This is a historic moment that signifies a new level of political maturity and unity within our great party.”

The governor pledged to consolidate his administration’s gains, emphasizing continued investment in infrastructure, education, agriculture, and job creation. He assured party members and residents that his government would remain committed to inclusive governance.

Heavy security presence was observed at the congress venue, with operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) ensuring a peaceful and orderly process. Vehicular movement was restricted around the venue to maintain security and orderliness.

With his affirmation, Oyebanji now stands as the APC flagbearer for the 2026 Ekiti gubernatorial election, setting the stage for a potentially decisive contest in the state’s political landscape.