As the off-cycle governorship election in Ekiti State, scheduled for Saturday, June 20, 2026, draws near, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is experiencing heightened tension, intense horse-trading, and shifting alliances within the party in the state.
This might have precipitated a complex web of political dynamics within the party.
The battle for the governorship ticket of the party is said to be between the incumbent governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO), who is currently seeking a second term, and a billionaire businessman and philanthropist, Kayode Ojo, an engineer known by his admirers as EKO.
According to the election timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), all political parties must conduct their primaries, including resolution of disputes arising from the primaries between October 20, and November 10, 2025.
However, the APC has fixed its gubernatorial primary for October 27. Apart from Oyebanji and Ojo, there are other aspirants also within APC. But the primary, according to analysts, would be a two-horse raise between Oyebanji and Ojo.
Governor Oyebanji is popular in Ekiti State politics. But Ojo is also popular, having contested the APC governorship primary with former governor Kayode Fayemi in 2017, and with Oyebanji in 2021. His supporters insist Ojo won the primary on both occasions, alleging that the powers that be then wrote the result for Fayemi and Oyebanji in 2017 and 2021 respectively.
Governor Oyebanji’s tenure
Biodun Oyebanji took office in October 2022, stepping into the shoes of his predecessor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi.
Many residents anticipated a seamless continuation of Fayemi’s policies but were quickly disillusioned as key projects languished, notably the contentious Ekiti Airport Project. Critics lament what they perceive as a lack of robust governance, with unfulfilled developmental promises leading to a rising tide of discontent among the populace.
At different public fora, Oyebanji has publicly committed to addressing the concerns, stating that his administration is firmly dedicated to realising developmental goals.
He asserted: “It is my duty to ensure that every promise made to the people of Ekiti State is kept.”
However, the reality reported by many constituents raised questions about his administration’s effectiveness, with several projects appearing stalled or incomplete.
Six-pillar development agenda
Upon assuming office, Oyebanji introduced a six-pillar development agenda focused on youth empowerment, human capital development, infrastructural advancement, agriculture, arts, and tourism.
Shortly after taking office, he proactively sought partnerships with federal ministries and development agencies to secure backing for his initiatives.
Oyebanji’s administration focused on addressing infrastructure decay, as roads in Ado Ekiti, the state capital, had deteriorated significantly. His “Operation Light up Ekiti” initiative also aimed to rejuvenate the nightlife of Ado Ekiti through streetlight installations.
Oyebanji demonstrated some success in stabilising security, particularly in handling the contentious leadership crisis in the state House of Assembly that could have spiralled out of control.
Despite the measures, critics argue that Oyebanji’s approach to governance has left much to be desired. Opposition voices frequently argued that while the governor speaks of promises, measurable outcomes often fall short.
A peep into the 2025 budget estimates of Ekiti State showed that the state has federal allocation of N168billion, VAT of N64 billion, Independent Revenue of N29billion, grants N79billion, and loan plan of N25billion.
Internecine strife within APC
One of the most daunting challenges facing Oyebanji as he seeks re-election is the internecine strife within the APC.
The challenges include the internal divisions, and the looming figure of Kayode Ojo, who, having previously challenged Oyebanji during the APC governorship primary in 2021, now poses a significant threat.
Political fractures within the APC, according to political observers, might complicate Oyebanji’s electoral prospects. There exists a camp loyal to the governor, while another conspicuously supports Kayode Ojo.
Observers have also noted that the divisions could weaken the party’s chances if left unresolved.
It was also stated by sources in APC that the discontent within the party could lead to a groundswell of support for Ojo.
Allegations of projects abandonment
One of the core criticisms aimed at Oyebanji relates to the perceived abandonment of projects initiated by Fayemi.
The Ekiti Airport Project, which was set to advance the state’s economic prospects by enhancing air travel capacity and connectivity, is often cited as a significant failure of the current administration.
The continued alleged delays and lack of transparency regarding its completion raise concerns about the governor’s commitment to developmental priorities, some have alleged.
The governor has made a concerted effort to align himself with Tinubu, attending numerous events across Nigeria with the president. There is also an argument that such moves might be intended to bolster support for him by the presidency
The governor’s public displays of allegiance to Tinubu have prompted sentiments among Ekiti indigenes, who desire local governance that directly addresses their unique challenges rather than solely aligning with national politics.
Fayemi’s shadows
One of the most influential figures in Ekiti politics is the former governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, who was instrumental in Oyebanji’s ascendancy to power in 2022.
However, there are indications that Fayemi might be at home with the coalition movement in African Democratic Congress (ADC), with reports suggesting that he is exploring alliances with the coalition movement.
The shift, as gathered, has drawn attention to Fayemi’s role in Ekiti’s political future and raised questions regarding the support that Oyebanji might expect from the powers that be in APC.
Former governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, once remarked that Fayemi was aware of the meetings being held by the coalition movement.
But Fayemi, in a swift reaction, dismissed the Ameachi’s remarks. He said he is a member of APC and he remains committed to the progressives’ ideals.
As gathered, some powers that be within the APC have also been monitoring the movement of Fayemi with a view to knowing whether the party could still trust him or not.
Sources revealed that the powers that be started monitoring Fayemi since 2023 when he made one profound statement about fuel subsidy removal.
Fayemi had subtly critiqued the current Tinubu’s administration’s strategy, while reflecting on historical events.
Political analysts said such remarks could have reflected Fayemi’s nuanced stance.
In September 2023, Dr Kayode Fayemi, said the protest that trailed the fuel subsidy removal during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan in 2012 was due to political interests.
He said this in his keynote address delivered at a national dialogue organised to celebrate the 60th birthday celebration of the founding National Secretary of Alliance for Democracy and Fellow, Abuja School of Social and Political Thought, Prof Udenta Udenta, in Abuja.
The programme was attended by Jonathan, former Minister of Education, Dr Oby Ezekwesili; and a former Minister of Aviation, Osita Chidoka, among others.
On January 1, 2012, President Goodluck had announced the removal of fuel subsidy and adjusted the pump price of petrol from N65 per litre to N141.
The decision sparked mass protests, tagged ‘Occupy Nigeria’ across major cities of the country.
The price was later re-adjusted to N97, after more than a week of protests. Petrol price was later reduced to N87 in 2015.
Jonathan faced serious backlash for the fuel price adjustment, especially from leaders of the APC, who were then in different opposition parties, including the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Congress for Progressives Congress (CPC), All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), and All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA).
Sources within APC contended that the alleged position of Fayemi might cause some scepticism towards Oyebanji’s ambitions within the camp of the federal authorities. But some other APC leaders have dismissed such rumours, insisting that those close to the presidency, including the Senate Majority Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, are fully with Oyebanji.
Endorsements, political manoeuvring
Despite the fractures, Oyebanji has received crucial endorsements from all former governors of Ekiti State, including Fayemi, Ayodele Fayose, Segun Oni, and Otunba Niyi Adebayo.
The endorsements could be perceived as an effort to unify diverse political interests within the state against the common threat posed by Ojo and other potential challengers.
Indeed, in Nigerian politics, the weight of endorsements can translate into significant advantages at the grassroots level. The pressing question remains whether the formal endorsements can convert into tangible electoral support as the election date looms.
Some analysts believed that the endorsement was not free, and that the governor might have been supporting his predecessors in office with certain privileges.
Pulse of the electorate
Public sentiment appears to be shifting, with many residents expressing dissatisfaction with the current state of governance.
Anecdotal evidence, as gathered, suggests a growing disillusionment with unfulfilled promises, prompting a chorus of voices from constituents feeling neglected.
As one local community leader lamented, “We voted for change, but what we see now is a continuity of disappointment. Majority of those enjoying the government are those who did not work for the emergence of the governor.
“For instance, the governor now has Fayose as his godfather. Fayose dictates who gets what appointments. So while card-carrying PDP members are appointed to offices – more than 100 of them have appointments – APC members who worked for the governors’ emergence have been abandoned and are being treated with contempt. One of those APC guys who stabbed one of our member during the primary that brought Oyebanji to power has been given an appointment as an SA to the governor. But APC members are suffering all over the place. That’s the way Oyebanji treats his party members.”
In response to the concerns, Oyebanji acknowledged the necessity of engaging constituents further, stating, “I hear the voices of our people, and I assure you that my administration will address these challenges.”
Oyebanji’s says he’s fulfilled 90% of promises
In December 2024, Oyebanji claimed significant achievements, stating his government had fulfilled over 90 per cent of the promises made during his campaign.
He stated that initiatives such as illuminating 30 communities and infrastructure projects that are underway demonstrated his administration’s commitment to improving living conditions in Ekiti State.
However, the assertions were met with scepticism, as critics questioned why there remained a need for ongoing governance efforts if such promises had indeed been fulfilled. They advised him to resign.
Rising political tensions and conflicts
As tensions heighten ahead of the primaries, accusations have flared between APC and ADC regarding political violence.
In September 2025, the ADC accused the APC of orchestrating politically motivated violence to intimidate opposition members.
The APC firmly denied the claims, branding them as baseless allegations aimed at garnering sympathy.
The adversarial relationship seems to be influencing sentiment on the ground, where fear of violence and intimidation appears to overshadow policy discussions and campaign initiatives.
In June 2025, notable dissatisfaction within the ranks of Oyebanji’s administration surfaced with the resignation of Wale Ade-Oba from the Waste Management Board. He cited inadequate progress and a lack of transparency in governance. Ade-Oba shifted his allegiance to Kayode Ojo.
In August 2025, Oyebanji expressed concern over some appointees’ inability to defend his administration amidst growing criticism. He emphasised that loyalty and responsibility are imperative for leadership.
He urged his cabinet members to serve as advocates for the government’s policies, particularly in the face of mounting scrutiny.
Oyebanji, inside sources, said, was forced by the development to consider cabinet reshuffle.
Ekiti Airport Project
In December 2024, Oyebanji lauded the commencement of flight operations at the newly constructed Ekiti Cargo International Airport.
He said his administration’s hope for improved transportation infrastructure was underlined by ongoing projects aimed at addressing the state’s connectivity challenges.
However, critics have pointed out that despite the positive announcements, substantiated progress on the ground remains limited, particularly regarding the operational status of the airport itself.
Eight months ago, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo (SAN), toured the airport and said the facility was 99.5 per cent ready for full commercial operations.
“The basic requirements for the takeoff of an airport are here. You have the fire station, the tower, navigational equipment already installed, all security equipment in place, the runway we have here is of international standard.
“What is left is to ignite all regulatory agencies in aviation to give all the necessary approvals.”
Governor Oyebanji, in his remarks, lauded Keyamo for his support to see to the completion of the game changer project for Ekiti people.
“I am also grateful to Mr. President (Bola Tinubu), whose reform made funds available to sub nationals because without his support, this will not be here.
“I am also grateful to Aare Afe Babalola for not being tired of assisting us. He has promised to do more.”
Oyebanji described the achievement as an alignment of the vision of the immediate past governor of the state, Dr Kayode Fayemi, who started the project.
“The gain of continuity is what you are seeing today; he tried his best and we took the baton from him.
“The airport is ready for non-scheduled flight. Anybody that has a chartered flight can fly into this place without any fear.”
The state has on December 11, 2024 secured the clearance from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to begin non-scheduled flight operations for six months from December 13, 2024 to June 15, 2025.
Afe Babalola had financed the purchase of navigational aids (CVOR/DME), control tower communications equipment, and the construction of the car park.
The NCAA also outlined installation of Instrument Landing System (ILS) to enhance the flight operational capacity of the airport as part of the conditions for the actualisation of the full commercial flight operation status.
When Oyebanji presented a thank-you letter to Aare Afe Babalola for his support for the airport, he lauded the governor for what he described as his commitment on the project.
“Without a viable and functional transportation system, a state, a country is doomed.
“You know as much as I do that people can’t come to Ekiti because of the bad road network. As a matter of fact, many organisations that promised to come and invest in Ekiti State cannot actualise their dream because the state is landlocked, airport-locked, railway-locked and industry-locked.
“But all that is beginning to change and it will change to the advantage of all of us.”
Critics also stated that only one aircraft has landed at the airport so far, and that no significant things are ongoing in the facility at the moment.
New Infrastructure Investments
In September 2025, the state government unveiled plans to allocate over N12billion for critical infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing the airport, road networks and housing development.
The projects include the Ikogosi-Ipole-Efon Alaaye Road rehabilitation.
The construction of one-kilometre flyover bridge from Union Bank in Ajilosun to First Bank at Okeyinmi in Ado-Ekiti, which Oyebanji began in 2024 is still ongoing.
The Kayode Ojo challenge
In August 2025, Kayode Ojo officially declared his intention to contest the governorship election against the sitting governor.
He stated that his aspirations were steeped in a promise of transformative leadership, focusing on education, vocational training, tourism, and significant infrastructure improvement.
A peep into his blueprint revealed that he aims to reshape Ekiti’s economic identity and enhance its global competitiveness.
Some APC members believed to be loyal to Governor Oyebanji, impeccable sources said, might have been working for Kayode Ojo underneath.
Ojo, who was born on August 1, 1970, is a native of Ikoro Ekiti, Ijero Local Government Area of Ekiti State. He graduated with a degree in Metallurgical and Materials Engineering from the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) in 1991.
He is a successful businessman with interests in oil and gas services, real estate, and consultancy. He’s the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of SALTA Infrastructure and Construction Company, which he grew into a multi-billion naira company.
He’s also involved in various other businesses, including Atlas International Engineering Services and Riserclad International Inc.
Ojo currently holds the position of Pro-Chancellor, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. He had also served as Pro-Chancellor, Federal University Lokoja; and Chairman, Governing Council, Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE).
In a viral video that trended online recently, Governor Oyebanji, while speaking at an event, threatened any APC ward or local government chairman in Ekiti that would welcome and receive any other governorship aspirant in the state. Many criticised the governor for getting so jittery that he would be inciting violence.
Neglect of federal roads
A legal luminary, Chief Adeniyi Akintola (SAN) remarked recently that Ekiti State has been mentioned as one of the states in the South West that hasn’t been developing at the same rate as Lagos, Oyo, and Ogun.
According to him, the roads linking Ado-Ekiti to other major towns are in poor condition.
He specifically mentioned the Akure-Ado Ekiti Road and said it was impassable until the Federal Government intervened. He added that travellers had to take a detour through Igbara Oke, Igbara Odo, Ilawe, and then to Ado Ekiti.
Akintola, who stated that he is an in-law to Ekiti by virtue of marriage, though he hails from Ibadan, stated that Ekiti-Ilesha Road, which is one of the major arteries to the state, is also in a deplorable state. The road, he advised, should be dualised since it’s under 100 kilometres and achievable by the Ekiti State Government.
He also emphasised the need for Ekiti State to adopt a similar economic strategy to Ogun and Oyo States, which leverage on the economic boom of Lagos State.
He averred that improvement of road networks and communication would always facilitate economic growth and development.
Akintola added that the excuse that deplorable roads in Ekiti are federal roads did not hold water because Oyo, Lagos, and Ogun States have reconstructed some federal roads, and they were paid back.
Another observer noted that majority of people plying the said federal roads are residents of the state.
Ekiti IGR and federal allocation
Some notable APC members contended that Oyebanji has every reason to perform better than he has done.
They cited increased Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) that has seen significant growth within the past three years.
They explained that the IGR was ₦17.03billion in 2022. It jumped to ₦29.82billion in 2023, representing a 75 per cent growth rate. The monthly IGR in 2023 was put at ₦650million.
Also in 2025, the current monthly IGR was put at ₦2.3billion.
Research also revealed that Ekiti State is not the only state in the country receiving low monthly allocation from the Federal Government.
Some of the other states in the same category of federal allocations with Ekiti include Gombe and Ebonyi.
Some stakeholders still believe that Governor Francis Nwifuru’s administration in Ebonyi State, and his counterpart in Gombe State, Inuwa Yahaya, in spite of the low federal allocation, might have surpassed Oyebanji in terms of performance.
“Go to Ebonyi, you will see that Governor Nwifuru constructed a first-of-its-kind tunnel and flyovers in Abakaliki to decongest traffic, rehabilitated over 200 kilometres of township roads, modernised drainage systems, and installed street lighting.
“He also constructed feeder roads, culverts, and mini-bridges to open up agricultural belts and ease transport of farm produce to markets.
“Then, he established University of ICT at Oferekpe Agbaja and University of Aeronautics Engineering at Ezza, apart from awarding foreign and local scholarships to over 1,000 Ebonyi students for Masters and Doctoral degrees.
“He also constructed 43 modern model secondary schools across various local government areas. These are just a few of his achievements within two years in office.
