Ekiti 2026: Three Leading Governorship Candidates Set for Showdown
As Ekiti State moves steadily toward the June 20, 2026 governorship election, three leading candidates have emerged as flagbearers of the state’s major political parties, setting the stage for what promises to be a keenly contested race.
The incumbent governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, will again fly the flag of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as he seeks re-election. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has nominated Dr Wole Oluyede, a familiar contender who has previously contested two governorship elections in the state. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) will be represented by Ambassador Dare Bejide, who is leading his party’s first major push for the governorship seat in Ekiti.
Traditionally, Ekiti politics has largely been dominated by the APC and the PDP since the return of democratic governance in Nigeria. This long-standing rivalry is expected to once again define the political landscape, even as the ADC attempts to carve a niche for itself and expand its influence ahead of the polls.
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Political observers note that the ruling APC is likely to approach the election with significant advantages, including well-established party structures, access to funding, and the benefit of incumbency. The party is expected to campaign strongly on its governance record, infrastructure development and continuity, making a case for a renewed mandate for Governor Oyebanji.
The PDP, despite its history and loyal grassroots following in parts of the state, is facing internal challenges that may weaken its electoral chances. The party has been grappling with internal divisions, including a legal challenge arising from its last governorship primary, where Dr Oluyede emerged as candidate. Analysts believe this crisis could affect party cohesion and campaign effectiveness.
The ADC, regarded as a growing but still emerging force in Ekiti politics, is expected to focus on visibility and voter mobilisation as it seeks to make its first major electoral breakthrough in the state. While its current structure and membership base may not yet rival those of the APC and PDP, the party is positioning itself as an alternative platform capable of reshaping the political conversation.
On the ground, the APC is expected to draw strength from the support of key political figures and office holders across the state. Former governors and influential stakeholders within the ruling party are widely believed to be backing Governor Oyebanji’s re-election bid, further consolidating the party’s standing.
For the PDP, Dr Oluyede is expected to rely largely on the party’s traditional supporters and loyalists who remain committed despite the internal challenges. How effectively the party manages its crisis in the coming months may prove decisive.
With less than a year to the election, political activities are expected to intensify as parties consolidate their bases, address internal issues and present their candidates to the electorate. As the race unfolds, Ekiti voters will ultimately determine whether continuity, resurgence or a new political force will shape the state’s next chapter.
A journalist with a speciality in politics, judiciary, and investigation for in-depth stories as a correspondent, among others. He covers all segments of Ekiti State, providing a platform for the people to air their views on issues affecting them.
