By Idowu Adebomi, Ado Ekiti
Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, on Tuesday reaffirmed his unwavering confidence in the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership to conduct a successful governorship primary, paving the way for the party’s victory in the 2026 Ekiti gubernatorial election.
The governor also reiterated his readiness to secure the APC gubernatorial ticket in the party’s primary election scheduled for October 27.
Governor Oyebanji made these remarks shortly after appearing before the APC Screening Committee, headed by Hon. Tunji Olawuyi, in Abuja. He was the first aspirant to participate in the exercise, arriving at Amor Hotel, Gwantape, around 10:00 a.m. His credentials were screened in a 15-minute closed-door session.
Speaking to newsmen afterward, the governor commended the APC leadership for the orderly screening arrangement, describing it as part of the necessary procedures for the forthcoming primary. He expressed confidence in the committee’s ability to ensure a credible process and outcome.
Oyebanji called on the APC National leadership to provide a level playing field for all aspirants who have cleared the screening stage, enabling them to present their manifestos to party members. He also expressed confidence in the committee overseeing the October 27 primary, noting that it would conduct the election in line with party guidelines.
The panel is scheduled to screen the four aspirants over Tuesday and Wednesday. Governor Oyebanji described the process as fair and transparent, capable of producing a credible result.
He stated, “I must commend the APC for putting this structure in place. It will save the party from a lot of problems. I have absolute confidence that the party will get it right. This is only the screening stage.
Next comes the appeal committee, the Congress committee, then the election proper. Whoever emerges must be supported because it is not just about the aspirants, it is about returning our party to power and serving the people.”
Governor Oyebanji was accompanied to the screening by prominent party leaders, National Assembly members, and political associates, including Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi (Chairman, SWDC), Senator Yemi Adaramodu (Ekiti South), Senator Cyril Fasuyi (Ekiti North), Speaker Ekiti State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, Hon. Kolawole Akinlayo, and AVM Niyi Ojuawo (rtd).
Others in attendance included Hon. Wunmi Ogunlola, Hon. Bimbo Daramola, Hon. Ibrahim Olanrewaju, Prince Wole Ajakaiye, Mr. Yinka Oyebode, Hon. Segun Dipe, and Engr. Dipo Bamisaye of the EKSU Alumni Association Support Group, among others.