INEC unveils Ekiti governorship candidates as PDP faces omission

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the provisional list of governorship and deputy governorship candidates for the Ekiti State governorship election scheduled for June 20, 2026.
The list, which was made public on Monday and displayed at INEC’s office along New Iyin Road in Ado-Ekiti, contains candidates from 12 political parties cleared to participate in the poll.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) is presenting the incumbent governor, Biodun Oyebanji, 58, who is seeking a second term with his current deputy, Monisade Afuye, 67, as his running mate. Several other parties have also unveiled their flagbearers and deputies ahead of the election.

The Accord Party nominated Opeyemi Falegan, 41, with Omoyemi Olaleye, 42, as deputy, while the African Action Congress (AAC) is fielding Akande Oluwasegun, 36, alongside Oluwasanmi Fajuyigbe. The Action Democratic Party (ADP) has Ayodeji Ojo, 42, as its governorship candidate, with Itunu Ibitoye, 35, running as deputy.

Also on the list is the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which is presenting Oluwadare Bejide, 66, and Paul Olowoyeye, 52. The Action People’s Party (APP) is represented by Bidemi Awogbemi, 36, and Akinyemi Adewumi, 53. Other political parties participating in the race include the Allied People’s Movement, Labour Party, New Nigeria People’s Party, People’s Redemption Party, Young Progressive Party, and Zenith Labour Party.

Notably missing from the provisional list are candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Dr. Wole Oluyede and his deputy were not included, a development that has drawn attention.

Sources within INEC disclosed that the PDP’s omission is linked to unresolved court cases surrounding the party’s leadership, which have affected the submission of valid nomination documents.

INEC, however, assured that the list remains provisional. The electoral body said an updated version will be published on January 19, 2026, in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022, allowing political parties to resolve legal disputes and complete substitutions before the election.