… Defeats Funso Ayeni, Ogun; promises unity, inclusive campaign
By Idowu Adebomi, Ado Ekiti
An Ikere-Ekiti born politician, Dr. Wole Oluyede has emerged victorious in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) governorship primary election, setting the stage for the 2026 Ekiti State governorship election.
Dr. Oluyede secured 279 votes, defeating his closest rival, Hon. Funso Ayeni, who polled 239 votes, while Theresa Funmi Ogun trailed behind with 27 votes.
The election, held at the Vino Event Centre in Ado Ekiti, was nearly marked by controversy as some disgruntled members protested the exclusion of Ido/Osi local government, leading to a delayed start and disruptions.
One of the aspirants, Dr. Peter Obafemi later withdrew from the primaries and threw his weight behind Dr. Oluyede. In his acceptance speech, Dr. Oluyede thanked delegates for their support, emphasizing that the victory was not just for him, but for the party.
“I want to call on all our members to remain committed to the task ahead. Today’s election shows that internal democracy works in our party,” Dr. Oluyede said, extending an olive branch to his co-contestants.
Hon. Funso Ayeni expressed dissatisfaction with the process, citing imperfections, and announced plans to seek redress internally.
PDP Chairman, Rt. Hon Tunji Odeyemi, commended aspirants, delegates, and party chieftains for their maturity and sportsmanship, declaring the process “free and fair”. He pledged to accommodate all candidates, ensuring party unity and victory in the general elections.
Dr. Oluyede will join other candidates, including Biodun Oyebanji (APC), Ambassador Dare Bejide (ADC), Hon. Falegan (Accord Party), and Elder Blessing Abegunde (NNPP), in the contest for the Oke Ayoba top job.
The keenly contested election started as early as 8:30 am saturday with the arrival of delegates from the 16 local government areas, Inec observers and members of the electoral panel led by former governor of Gombe State Ibrahim Dankambo and party faithfuls who thronged the Vino Event Centre to take part in the historic process of who becomes the flag bearer of the Peoples Democratic Party in the 2026 Ekiti guber elections.