The 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State is gradually taking shape as Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, popularly known as BAO, seeks a second term in office amid growing political competition from opposition parties.
The election, scheduled for June 20, 2026, has already attracted 13 contestants, though political analysts identify the major contenders as Governor Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Dr Wole Oluyede of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and Ambassador Dare Bejide of the African Democratic Congress, ADC.
Oyebanji, who assumed office in October 2022, is campaigning on the strength of his administration’s performance and development projects across the state. His supporters argue that his government has delivered significantly in infrastructure, healthcare, education, public service welfare and economic development under his “Shared Prosperity” agenda.
Among the achievements credited to the governor are the completion of the Ekiti Cargo Airport, ongoing road construction projects, improved electricity supply to underserved communities and increased investments in hospitals and schools. His administration has also employed thousands of workers into the civil service and education sector while implementing the new national minimum wage for state workers.
Political observers note that Oyebanji also enjoys broad political backing from former governors and influential stakeholders across party lines. Several support groups, professional associations and community bos have publicly endorsed his second term bid.
However, opposition candidates insist the election remains open. PDP candidate Wole Oluyede has promised economic reforms, transparency and inclusive governance, while ADC candidate Dare Bejide says he plans to tackle unemployment, infrastructure challenges and poor living conditions if elected.
Both opposition candidates are also promoting the Ekiti South agenda, arguing that the senatorial district deserves the governorship position after years without producing a governor.
The election is expected to test the strength of the APC in Ekiti and determine whether Oyebanji can become the first governor in the state’s history to secure consecutive reelection victories.
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