The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the final list of candidates cleared to contest the June 2026 Ekiti State governorship election, setting the stage for a keenly contested race involving 12 political parties.
INEC disclosed that the list, signed by a National Commissioner, Mrs. Rose Oraran-Anthony, confirms that all approved candidates will run alongside their respective deputy governorship candidates.
According to the commission, the educational qualifications of the candidates and their running mates range from primary school certificates to doctorate degrees, a disparity that has already generated public debate among voters and political observers in the state.
The electoral body stated that candidates were cleared from several political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), Labour Party (LP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), Action Democratic Party (ADP), Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), Young Progressives Party (YPP), and others.
The incumbent governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (58), will seek re-election on the platform of the APC, retaining his deputy, Monisade Afuye (67), as his running mate.
The Labour Party is fielding Olajuyin Ikusayede Gbegbe Oyebanji (67) as its governorship candidate, with legal practitioner Okumade Ayokunle Odumayo as deputy.
Among the younger aspirants is Abegunde Ayobami Blessing (35) of the NNPP, reflecting increasing youth participation in Ekiti politics.
Similarly, the African Action Congress (AAC) has nominated Akande Oluwasegun Samuel (36), with John Fajuyigbe Oluwasanmi as his running mate.
Other cleared candidates include Bejide Oluwadare Patrick (ADC), Ojo Ayodeji (ADP), Anifowose Joseph Olanrewaju (APM), Awogbemi Bidemi Olaiya (APP), Ayodele Olaniyi Olanrewaju Praise (PRP), Osinkolu Olusegun Ayodele (YPP), and Adetunji Victor Damilola (ZLP).
With the publication of the final list, political parties are expected to intensify campaigns ahead of the election, widely viewed as a critical test of voter sentiment in Ekiti State amid economic challenges, governance concerns, and rising youth political engagement.
INEC reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a free, fair, and credible election, cautioning political parties and candidates to strictly comply with the Electoral Act and all campaign guidelines.
