By Peter Omopo
Abuja, September 23, 2025 — Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has expressed confidence in the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to conduct a transparent governorship primary and secure victory for the party in the 2026 governorship election.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Tuesday after appearing before the APC Governorship Screening Committee, chaired by Tunji Olawuyi, the Governor said he was ready to emerge as the party’s flagbearer in the October 27 primary.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed the Ekiti governorship election for July 20, 2026, while the APC primary will be held on October 27, 2025.
Oyebanji Backs APC Leadership
Oyebanji, who was the first aspirant screened, arrived at the screening venue in Katampe, Abuja, around 10:00 a.m., where his credentials were reviewed in a 15-minute session.
He lauded the APC for instituting what he described as a fair and transparent process, urging the party to maintain a level playing field for all aspirants.
“I call on the APC National leadership to provide a level playing field for all aspirants that have scaled through screening to sell their manifestos to members. I am confident the committee will conduct the Ekiti primary election in tandem with party guidelines,” Oyebanji said.
The Governor stressed that the screening process would save the party from future disputes and assured supporters that the APC would “get it right” in Ekiti.
He was accompanied by a high-powered delegation, including Senators Olubunmi Adetunmbi, Yemi Adaramodu, and Cyril Fasuyi, Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly Adeoye Aribasoye, and several former lawmakers and political associates.
Four Aspirants Under Screening
Aside from Oyebanji, three other aspirants — Kayode Ojo, Abimbola Olajumoke Olawunmi, and Atinuke Omolayo Oluremi — are expected to face the committee between Tuesday and Wednesday.
“This is only the screening stage,” Oyebanji noted. “Next comes the appeal committee, the congress committee, and then the election proper. Whoever emerges must be supported because this is not just about the aspirants but about serving the people and returning our party to power.”
Omolayo Speaks on Candidacy
Meanwhile, fellow aspirant Atinuke Omolayo Oluremi also appeared before the committee and expressed optimism about her chances.
Omolayo, however, hinted at the possibility of stepping aside for the incumbent Governor.
“I will only step down for the Governor, His Excellency Abayomi Oyebanji. He is my leader. Any other person, no way,” she said.
The aspirant, who vowed to make history as Ekiti’s first female governor, stressed that women hold significant influence in elections and must play a more active role in politics.
“Since the creation of Ekiti State, there has never been a female governor. By the grace of God, I want to be the first. Women are the ones who come out to vote. I commend our First Lady for encouraging women to participate in politics,” she added.
The Road Ahead
With the APC screening process underway, political watchers say the race for the party’s ticket is already shaping up to be a test of loyalty, strategy, and grassroots mobilisation ahead of the July 2026 poll.
For now, all eyes remain on the party’s national leadership to ensure a credible process that can unify members and strengthen APC’s chances in Ekiti.
