APC Closes Ranks, Hands Oyebanji Automatic Ticket for 2026 Ekiti Poll

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has sealed the deal for Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, adopting him as its consensus candidate for the 2026 Ekiti governorship election — a move seen by insiders as a decisive step to consolidate power ahead of the polls.

The party’s National Working Committee (NWC) made the announcement on Tuesday, after Mrs. Atinuke Oluremi Omolayo, the only other cleared aspirant, withdrew from the race and declared full support for Oyebanji’s re-election.

In a statement signed by National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the APC said it opted to collapse the earlier planned direct primary into a consensus process, in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022.

“Following the voluntary withdrawal of Mrs. Omolayo and her endorsement of Governor Oyebanji, the party has resolved to proceed with a consensus arrangement,” the statement read.

“This decision is fully in compliance with Sections 84(9) and (11) of the Electoral Act, which guide the use of consensus mode in primary elections.”

The development effectively ends what many described as a “token contest” within the ruling party, clearing the path for Oyebanji’s smooth return as the party’s standard-bearer.

The APC also released its timetable of activities to validate the consensus process. The delegate congress will hold on Saturday, October 25, 2025, the appeal session on Sunday, October 26, and the special nomination congress to officially ratify Oyebanji’s ticket on Monday, October 27, 2025.

Morka commended Mrs. Omolayo for her “spirit of loyalty and maturity”, describing her withdrawal as a testament to her commitment to party unity and progress.

“We urge all members and stakeholders to rally behind the governor as we march towards another victory in 2026,” Morka added.

Political observers say the APC’s swift move to adopt Oyebanji reflects an effort to avoid internal wrangling and project unity, especially as the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) intensifies its search for a viable candidate.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled the Ekiti governorship election for Saturday, July 20, 2026.