Governor Biodun Oyebanji has been officially endorsed as the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate for Ekiti State’s upcoming June 2026 election.
His confirmation followed Mrs. Atinuke Oluremi Omolayo’s voluntary withdrawal from the race. Two other aspirants, Kayode Ojo and Abimbola Olajumoke, were disqualified for failing to meet party requirements.
Opponent Steps Down in Support
During the governorship primary at Ekiti Parapo Pavilion in Ado-Ekiti, Omolayo formally withdrew her candidacy. She cited Oyebanji’s performance and the need to continue his administration’s development initiatives as key reasons.
“Governor Oyebanji has performed excellently. His achievements in infrastructure, governance, and inclusiveness speak volumes,” Omolayo stated. “He deserves a second term.”
She further revealed she had dissolved her political structure across Ekiti’s 16 local government areas. This move demonstrates her full support for Oyebanji’s re-election bid.
Unanimous Party Endorsement
Following Omolayo’s withdrawal, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele proposed a motion to ratify Oyebanji’s nomination. Ekiti State House of Assembly Speaker Adeoye Aribasoye seconded the motion.
The nomination complied with Section 84(11) of Nigeria’s 2022 Electoral Act. Delegates unanimously approved Oyebanji’s candidacy through a voice vote.
This endorsement positions Oyebanji as APC’s official flagbearer for the 2026 Ekiti governorship election.