2027: Oyebanji distances self from Ekiti Aspirants, warns against name-dropping

By Idowu Adebomi

The Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji, has issued a warning to political aspirants in the Ekiti North Federal Constituency against using his name to mislead delegates and party stakeholders ahead of the 2027 primary elections.

Sources close to the governor disclosed on Wednesday that Oyebanji has no preferred candidate in the contest and remains fully committed to maintaining neutrality throughout the party’s primary process.

According to these sources, the governor became displeased following reports that a particular aspirant has been claiming to have secured his exclusive endorsement.

These claims are allegedly being used as a tactic to influence delegates and ward chairmen across the constituency.

One source stated that the governor is not prepared to impose any candidate on the party, noting that he expects all aspirants to go to the people, present their manifestos, and allow delegates to make their choices freely.

The sources further revealed that speculations have been mounting within political circles regarding an aspirant spreading false claims of receiving the governor’s backing to gain an unfair political advantage.

Governor Oyebanji reportedly described this development as deceptive and unacceptable.

He warned all contenders against dragging his name into their campaign activities or using his office to seek undue political leverage.

Insiders suggest that the governor remains focused on strengthening internal democracy within the All Progressives Congress and ensuring a transparent and credible primary election process, particularly in the Oye and Ikole local government areas.

They added that Oyebanji has consistently maintained that his administration’s primary focus is governance and service delivery rather than interference in party primaries or electoral contests.

Meanwhile, various stakeholders in Ekiti politics have argued that the governor’s neutral stance is a positive development. They believe this approach will help reduce political tension within the party and further strengthen the APC’s position ahead of the 2027 general elections.