By Wasiu Owolewa
In less than two years, the people of Ekiti State will head to the polls to elect a governor for another four-year term, as the incumbent Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, concludes his tenure.
While some might consider discussions about the 2026 gubernatorial election in Ekiti premature, others see it as timely and relevant.
It is no longer news that various groups and politicians have been endorsing the incumbent Governor for another term. These endorsements are based on the belief that Governor Oyebanji has performed exceptionally well in all areas and deserves another chance to continue his good work. Although the Governor has not publicly declared his intention to run for another term, he is constitutionally entitled to do so unless he decides otherwise.
Considering the 2026 election and the likelihood of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) securing a landslide victory, several factors come into play.
In my view, the significant achievements and governance style of the incumbent Governor have endeared him to the people of Ekiti, enhancing the APC’s prospects for winning the 2026 gubernatorial election. Governor Oyebanji’s rising popularity and the affection shown by the people of Ekiti, based on his outstanding performance, have created an unfavorable political atmosphere for any potential opponents. Anyone contemplating a run in the 2026 election may reconsider, viewing it as a futile effort.
The ruling APC is counting on the broad acceptability of Governor Oyebanji to secure the upcoming election and is unlikely to field another candidate. The party has already sent a strong message that its ticket is reserved for the incumbent Governor with their unanimous endorsement for a second term.
Meanwhile, the major opposition parties in the state, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP), are still recovering from their defeat in the 2022 gubernatorial election. They have lost many members to the ruling APC, either directly or indirectly, and their structures have largely collapsed. Consequently, these parties are not in a position to win any future elections.
Given the current political climate in Ekiti, there may not be any serious contest against the ruling party. Governor Oyebanji has addressed potential challenges to his second-term ambition, earning the support of the electorate and key stakeholders in the state. His ability to engage with these critical stakeholders has been instrumental in garnering support for his second term, thanks to his commendable performance in office.
Based on this analysis, it is evident why the ruling APC in Ekiti will likely have an easy ride to victory in the 2026 gubernatorial election.