The All Progressives Congress has formally endorsed Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji as its consensus candidate for the 2026 gubernatorial election, with party chieftains describing the move as recognition of his performance in office.
The affirmation took place at a special congress held in Ado-Ekiti on Monday, where Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele moved the motion, which was subsequently seconded by the Speaker of Ekiti State House of Assembly, Stephen Aribasoye.
Ahmed Ododo, Chairman of the Affirmation Congress Committee, said the decision reflected widespread satisfaction with the governor’s achievements across multiple sectors of the state’s economy.
“The affirmation is a reflection of Oyebanji’s giant strides in various sectors which have benefitted the people of Ekiti,” Ododo stated during the congress.
He emphasised that the endorsement demonstrated the party’s commitment to internal cohesion and democratic principles.
“APC remains a party of discipline, which has shown in the trust that Ekiti residents have in the leadership style of Oyebanji,” the committee chairman added.
The consensus arrangement means Oyebanji will not face any challengers in the party’s primary election ahead of the 2026 poll, a development that signals strong backing from the APC leadership structure in the state.
Ekiti residents will head to the polls in 2026 to elect a governor for a four-year term. Oyebanji, who assumed office in 2022, is seeking to secure a second term in accordance with the Nigerian constitution, which permits state governors to serve a maximum of two consecutive terms.
The APC’s decision to adopt a consensus approach mirrors similar strategies employed by the party in other states, where incumbent governors have received early endorsements to avoid divisive primary contests.
