…As leading contestant, Toyin Ojo steps down for Fatoba
April 19, 2026
In a move seen as a decisive step toward unity within the ruling party, leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) across the 13 wards in Ado Ekiti have unanimously adopted Hon. Steve Olusola Fatoba as the party’s consensus candidate for Ekiti Central Federal Constituency I.
The gathering, which drew key political figures and stakeholders in Ado, signalled what many described as a turning point in efforts to consolidate party strength ahead of the forthcoming elections.
Among those present were former Deputy Governor, Modupe Adelabu; Secretary to the State Government, Habibat Adubiaro; Deputy Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Bolaji Egbeyemi-Olagbaju; Commissioner for Environment, Tosin Aluko; and Ado Local Government Chairman, Hon. Chief Bosun Osaloni, alongside LCDA chairpersons, ward leaders, councillors, and political appointees.
Speaking at the meeting, former lawmaker, Hon. Toyin Lucas, traced the roots of consensus arrangements to the era of Obafemi Awolowo, noting that such political culture was designed to reduce excessive spending, avoid rancour, and promote cohesion within the party.
Addressing party faithful, Prof. Adelabu appealed for unity, acknowledging that while no individual is without flaws, the collective interest of Ado must come first. She noted that with Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government already backing Fatoba, Ado had a responsibility to align and speak with one voice.
“We are one before this and after this, we shall remain one,” she said, urging aggrieved members to sheath their swords.
In her remarks, Prof. Adubiaro described the development as a historic moment for Ado Ekiti, declaring that the long-held notion that the town lacks a unified political direction had been laid to rest.
Also lending his voice, party chieftain, Chief Remi Oguntuase, stressed the importance of boosting voter turnout in the coming polls, noting that strong electoral performance often translates to increased federal presence and benefits. He affirmed that his support for Fatoba followed consultations with Ado elders and traditional authorities.
The formal motion for Fatoba’s adoption was moved by Chief Osaloni and seconded by Hon. Mrs. Mary Oso-Omotosho, drawing unanimous approval from the gathering.
In a related development, party leaders also endorsed Hon. Michael Opeyemi for Senate, with the motion moved by Rt. Hon. Olagbaju and seconded by Special Adviser on Special Projects, Hon. Talabi Albert Olubunmi.
Letters formalising the endorsements were subsequently presented by Prof. Adelabu to the Chairman of APC Ward Chairmen in Ado Ekiti, Hon. Mike Akinleye, in the presence of ward executives and councillors.
In a related twist to the day’s political developments, a leading aspirant, Engr. Toyin Ojo, also stepped down for Hon. Fatoba, declaring his full acceptance of the decision reached by party leaders and the established process. He prayed for himself to receive the kind of unique grace that has brought Fatoba this far.
Reacting to the endorsement, Hon. Steve Olusola Fatoba expressed appreciation to party leaders, the royal father of Ado Ekiti, and Governor Biodun Oyebanji for their confidence in him. He admitted to past shortcomings, assuring stakeholders that lessons had been taken and improvements would be evident moving forward.
“I will not disappoint you. There will be a clear difference,” he pledged, while also acknowledging his co-contestants for their maturity and support throughout the process.