The All Progressives Congress (APC) has confirmed Governor Biodun Oyebanji as its governorship candidate for the 2026 Ekiti State election following a consensus affirmation exercise held on Monday at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, Ado-Ekiti.
A total of 885 delegates from the 16 local government areas of the state endorsed Oyebanji’s candidacy, paving the way for his second-term bid.
The special nomination congress was supervised by a 10-member committee led by Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, with Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo as deputy chairman and Hon. Taiwo Sunmonu as secretary.
The exercise followed the voluntary withdrawal of the only other cleared aspirant, Mrs Atinuke Omolayo, leaving Oyebanji as the sole contender.
During the session, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele moved the motion for Oyebanji’s ratification as the party’s consensus candidate, which was seconded by the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Stephen.
“This decision marks a new level of political maturity and unity within our party,” Oyebanji said in his acceptance speech, dedicating his nomination to God and expressing gratitude to the party leadership and delegates.
The governor also appreciated President Bola Tinubu, the APC National Working Committee, and party stakeholders for their support, pledging to consolidate on the achievements of his administration.
“All our leaders are united to work together. Those who had shown interest have accepted the party’s decision in good faith. This gesture of unity will strengthen our stability as a party and as a state,” he stated.
Heavy security was deployed around the congress venue to ensure a peaceful process, with operatives from the Nigeria Police Force, DSS, and NSCDC stationed at key points.
Former Governor Kayode Fayemi described Oyebanji’s adoption as “a reflection of unity and maturity within the APC,” following a meeting with party stakeholders ahead of the congress.
APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka confirmed the shift from direct primaries to consensus, saying it was approved by the National Working Committee in line with the Electoral Act.
With the ratification, Oyebanji will represent the APC in the 2026 Ekiti governorship election.
Comments are closed.