‘He Disrespected Tinubu’ – Commotion In Ekiti APC Over Oyebanji’s Re-election Bid

The Ekiti State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is currently embroiled in a dispute regarding the endorsement of Governor Biodun Oyebanji for a second term.

Reports indicate that a faction of concerned APC elders and youth, led by Chief Olaofe Adeniran, has accused Governor Oyebanji of allegedly disrespecting President Bola Tinubu and the APC National Working Committee.

Furthermore, they assert that the establishment of a 24-member ‘BAO State Endorsement Committee,’ chaired by former Deputy Governor Abiodun Aluko, was a manoeuvre by Oyebanji to position himself as the party’s candidate for the 2026 governorship election.

Naijaonpoint understands that the faction contends that such actions contradict Tinubu’s ongoing calls for internal democracy and could potentially weaken the APC’s influence in the state.

They argue that Oyebanji has restricted the democratic opportunities available to other qualified party members.

The group has urged national party leaders, including Tinubu and APC National Chairman Umar Ganduje, to intervene and address the governor’s actions.

They further emphasised that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has yet to issue election guidelines, advising the governor to refrain from pursuing self-succession strategies.

Additionally, they warned that activities like a proposed mega rally could mislead the public and violate the country’s Electoral Act.

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

In response, the Publicity Secretary of the Ekiti APC, Segun Dipe, refuted the claims made by the group. He clarified that the endorsement committee was established by stakeholders rather than the governor.

Dipe emphasised that political activities, including endorsements, are commonplace and do not signify formal campaigns or breaches of regulations.

He also noted that Governor Oyebanji has not made a public announcement regarding his intention to pursue a second term.

According to him, the expressions of support from various groups merely indicate their confidence in the governor’s performance and do not represent a party decision or a campaign announcement.

Furthermore, he pointed out that both the Nigerian Constitution and the APC guidelines permit a governor to seek re-election.

“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.