By Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State, Hon. Sunday Ibitoye, has dismissed all candidates recently unveiled by opposition parties for the 2026 governorship election, describing them as “no threat whatsoever” to the re-election bid of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji.
Ibitoye, who spoke with journalists in Ado-Ekiti, said the governing APC remains firmly rooted across all parts of the state, insisting that none of the opposition contenders possesses the political strength, structure, or popularity to challenge Governor Oyebanji at the polls.
According to him, the opposition parties have fielded “paperweight candidates” whose capacities, achievements, and grassroots appeal cannot match the track record and wide acceptance of the Governor.
He added that most opposition figures in the state are only active on social media, where they create noise and imaginary influence, but lack the on-ground mobilization, political structure, and relevance needed to contest power in Ekiti. “When it comes to real politics and grassroots engagement, they are nowhere to be found,” he said.
Ibitoye explained that Governor Oyebanji’s leadership style, developmental projects, and people-centered governance have endeared him to Ekiti residents, making the 2026 contest “a clear and easy choice” for the electorate.
He further maintained that the APC is united and fully prepared to deliver a convincing victory, noting that Ekiti people are eager to sustain the progress recorded under the Oyebanji administration.