By Abiola Olawale
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially confirmed the current state governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, as its consensus candidate for the upcoming Ekiti State 2026 Governorship election.
The ratification was announced following a consensus affirmation exercise held on Monday at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, Ado-Ekiti. This decisive step by the APC leadership aims to present a united front and capitalize on the incumbent’s performance record.
The exercise saw 885 delegates from the 16 local government areas of the state endorse Oyebanji, who is seeking a second term as governor.
The special nomination congress, supervised by a 10-member committee chaired by Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, officially ratified Oyebanji’s candidacy after the voluntary withdrawal of the only other cleared aspirant, Mrs Atinuke Omolayo.
Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State served as deputy chairman of the committee, while Hon. Taiwo Sunmonu acted as secretary.
During the session, Senate Leader and APC stalwart, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, moved a motion for the ratification of Oyebanji’s nomination as the party’s consensus candidate.
Bamidele stated: “I, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, hereby move a motion that this Ekiti Special Nomination Congress ratify the nomination of His Excellency, Biodun Oyebanji, as the consensus gubernatorial candidate of the Ekiti State APC, according to Section 84, Subsection 11 of the Electoral Act, 2022. I so move.”
The motion was seconded by Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Adeoye Stephen.
In his acceptance speech, Oyebanji appreciated the party leadership and delegates for entrusting him with the ticket for a second time.
“I am honoured and appreciative of this rare privilege which you are giving for the second time.
“If words fail to fully express the depth of my excitement and gratitude, please forgive my bluntness; I will eternally be indebted to you all,” Oyebanji said.
Oyebanji’s confirmation means he is the APC flagbearer ahead of the 2026 Ekiti governorship election.
