By Muhammad Mamman
Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has officially emerged as the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2026 election, securing the party’s endorsement to seek a second term in office.
The announcement followed the APC primary election held across the state’s 16 local government areas, where party members and delegates unanimously backed Oyebanji as their preferred candidate. The process was described as peaceful and transparent by both party officials and observers.
In his acceptance speech, Governor Oyebanji expressed gratitude to APC members for their confidence in his leadership, pledging to continue his administration’s focus on good governance, youth empowerment, infrastructure development, and economic growth. He urged party members to remain united ahead of the 2026 gubernatorial contest, stressing that victory for the APC would depend on collective effort and internal harmony.
Party leaders, including members of the National Working Committee (NWC) and state executives, lauded the outcome, describing Oyebanji’s emergence as a reflection of his performance and popularity among the people.
Political analysts note that Oyebanji’s candidature places the APC in a strong position to retain power in Ekiti, although opposition parties are expected to mount a fierce challenge as the campaign season approaches.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is yet to release the full timetable for the 2026 Ekiti governorship election, but preparations are already gathering pace within major political parties.
