Ekiti 2026: APC factions clash over Oyebanji’s re-election ambition

The All Progressive Congress, APC, Ekiti State chapter is currently enmeshed in controversy over endorsement of Governor Biodun Oyebanji for a second term.

It was gathered that a group of concerned APC elders and youths and led by Chief Olaofe Adeniran, has accused Gov. Oyebanji of allegedly showing disrespect towards President Bola Tinubu and the APC National Working Committee.

Continuing, they claimed that formation of a 24-member “BAO State Endorsement Committee,” chaired by former Deputy Governor, Abiodun Aluko was orchestrated by Oyebanji to position himself as the party’s candidate for the 2026 governorship election.

The group claims that the move negates Tinubu’s repeated calls for internal democracy and risks undermining the APC’s strength in the state.

According to the group, Oyebanji has closed the democratic space to other eligible and competent party members of the party

The group has called the party national leaders, including Tinubu and APC National Chairman Umar Ganduje, to call the  governor to order.

They argued further that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has not released elections guidelines, cautioning the governor to desist from his self- succession plans.

According to them, activities such as a planned mega rally would be misleading the public, thus violating Electoral Act of the country.

“Why the rush?” the group queried, adding: “Why this scramble to impose himself, despite widespread dissatisfaction with his leadership?”

However, in its response, the Ekiti APC Publicity Secretary, Segun Dipe, dismissed the group’s claims.

According to him, the endorsement committee was formed by stakeholders, not the governor.

Dipe stressed that political activities such as endorsements are normal and do not equate to formal campaigns or violations.

He added that Governor Oyebanji has not publicly declared interest in seeking a second term.

He said expressions of support from various groups are simply reflections of their confidence in the governor’s performance and do not amount to a party decision or campaign declaration.

He added that the Nigerian Constitution and APC guidelines allow a governor to seek a second term.

“If Oyebanji chooses to run, he is within his constitutional rights.

“At the moment, no law has been broken, and there is no official communication from the governor regarding any endorsement process,” he said.