INEC Releases Full List Of Ekiti Governorship Candidates
The Independent National Electoral Commission has released the final list of candidates cleared to contest the June 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State, confirming a crowded contest involving 12 political parties.
The list was issued by INEC and signed by National Commissioner Rose Oraran-Anthony. It shows that each governorship candidate will run with a deputy, with academic qualifications across the field ranging from primary school certificates to doctorate degrees.
Among those cleared is the incumbent governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, 58, who is seeking re-election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, with Monisade Afuye, 67, as his running mate.
The Labour Party has named Olajuyin Ikusayede Gbegbe Oyebanji, 67, as its candidate, alongside lawyer Okumade Ayokunle Odumayo as deputy.
Younger aspirants are also in the race. Abegunde Ayobami Blessing, 35, will fly the flag of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, while the African Action Congress has nominated Akande Oluwasegun Samuel, 36, with John Fajuyigbe Oluwasanmi as his deputy.
Other candidates include Bejide Oluwadare Patrick of the African Democratic Congress, Ojo Ayodeji of the Action Democratic Party, Anifowose Joseph Olanrewaju of the Allied Peoples Movement, Awogbemi Bidemi Olaiya of the Action Peoples Party, Ayodele Olaniyi Olanrewaju Praise of the Peoples Redemption Party, Osinkolu Olusegun Ayodele of the Young Progressives Party, and Adetunji Victor Damilola of the Zenith Labour Party.
With the list now public, parties are expected to step up campaigns ahead of the poll, which comes amid economic pressure, governance debates, and rising youth interest in politics.
The commission has fixed the Ekiti governorship election for Saturday, June 20, 2026, and has restated its pledge to conduct a credible exercise. INEC also warned parties and candidates to comply fully with electoral laws and campaign rules as preparations move into full gear.
