By Idowu Adebomi
The political landscape ahead of the 2026 Ekiti State governorship election has taken a new turn following the return of Dr. Wole Oluyede of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ballot, setting the stage for a three-way contest among the leading contenders.
The Court of Appeal sitting in Akure recently affirmed Oluyede as the valid governorship candidate of the PDP, overturning an earlier judgment that had nullified the party’s primary election. The appellate court ruled that the primary that produced Oluyede complied with the provisions of the Electoral Act and the party’s constitution, thereby restoring his candidacy for the June 18 election.
With the legal dispute resolved, attention has shifted to the contest, where the incumbent governor, Gov. Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ambassador Dare Bejide of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and Dr. Wole Oluyede of the PDP are emerging as the leading contenders.
Gov. Oyebanji enters the race with the advantage of incumbency and the political structure of the ruling APC at both state and federal levels. Analysts note that incumbency often provides strategic benefits, including access to government structures, grassroots networks, and greater visibility through ongoing development projects.
Since assuming office, Oyebanji has emphasised continuity in governance, infrastructural development, and public sector reforms. His administration has also focused on maintaining stability within the APC in Ekiti State, a factor many observers believe could strengthen his re-election bid.
Historically, Ekiti politics has oscillated between the APC and the PDP since the return to democratic rule in 1999, making both parties dominant forces in the state.
However, observers note that incumbency alone may not guarantee victory, particularly in a politically active state like Ekiti, where voters are known for independent voting patterns.
Ambassador Dare Bejide, candidate of the ADC, is positioning himself as an alternative to the APC–PDP dominance. A former Nigerian ambassador and experienced politician, Bejide has previously contested the governorship and remains a familiar figure in Ekiti politics.
His campaign has focused on presenting the ADC as a “third force” capable of altering the political landscape dominated by the two major parties.
Analysts believe Bejide’s chances may depend on his ability to attract voters dissatisfied with both the APC and the PDP. If he succeeds in consolidating protest votes or mobilising new supporters, he could emerge as a significant contender.
However, the grassroots strength of the APC and PDP may pose a challenge for the ADC candidate.
For the PDP, Oluyede’s reinstatement has revived hopes within the party after months of uncertainty caused by the legal dispute over its primary election.
Oluyede, a medical professional and seasoned political contender, has previously participated in governorship contests in the state, giving him considerable name recognition among voters.
Party leaders believe his return will energise supporters and help consolidate opposition efforts against the ruling APC.
Nevertheless, the PDP faces internal challenges, including lingering factional disputes that could affect cohesion ahead of the election. Analysts argue that the party must rebuild unity quickly to mount a strong challenge against the incumbent.
As Ekiti prepares for the June 18, 2026 governorship election, the contest is shaping into a three-horse race among Oyebanji, Bejide, and Oluyede.
The outcome may depend on factors including party unity, grassroots mobilisation, campaign strategies, and voter perception of the candidates’ credibility and performance.
While Oyebanji’s incumbency and the APC’s structure give him an advantage, opposition parties are banking on shifting political dynamics and voter sentiment to create an opening.
With Oluyede now firmly back on the ballot, the Ekiti governorship race has regained its competitive edge, setting the stage for an intense political contest in the weeks ahead.