Ekiti 2026: APC Affirms Oyebanji as Governorship Candidate

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By Ojo Ayodeji

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially affirmed Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji as its governorship candidate for the 2026 Ekiti State election.

The affirmation took place on Monday during the party’s Consensus Candidate Nomination Congress held at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, Ado-Ekiti.

Party leaders, delegates, and stakeholders described Oyebanji’s endorsement as a product of unity and consensus within the Ekiti APC. A total of 885 delegates from the 16 local government areas unanimously ratified his nomination.

The special congress, supervised by a 10-member committee chaired by Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, officially confirmed Oyebanji’s candidacy following 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 session, Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele moved the motion for Oyebanji’s ratification in accordance with Section 84 (9) of the Electoral Act, 2022, which was seconded by Rt. Hon. Adeoye Stephen, Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly.

Reacting to his affirmation, Governor Oyebanji, joined by his wife, offered songs of worship and dedicated the victory to God.

Delivering his acceptance speech, Oyebanji expressed deep gratitude to the APC leadership, delegates, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for their confidence in him.

“I am honoured and appreciative of this rare privilege. Words cannot express the depth of my excitement and gratitude. I will eternally remain indebted to you all,” he said.

He described the event as “a milestone in Ekiti’s political history” and a testament to the maturity and unity of the APC in the state.

“This is a historic moment that signals a new level of political stability. The decision to make me the consensus candidate for a second time is unprecedented,” the governor added.

Oyebanji also commended party stakeholders for closing ranks and fostering peace ahead of the 2026 governorship election, pledging to consolidate on the gains of his administration.

“Our leaders have shown maturity and unity. Those who earlier showed interest have accepted the party’s decision in good faith. This gesture will further strengthen our party and our state,” he said.

The governor extended special appreciation to President Tinubu and the APC National Working Committee (NWC), led by Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, for their guidance throughout the process.

With the affirmation, Oyebanji formally emerges as the APC flagbearer for the 2026 Ekiti State Governorship Election.