Tensions rise in APC ahead of 2026 Ekiti governorship election as Ojo vows to defeat Oyebanji

As the 2026 Ekiti governorship election approaches, tensions within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) are escalating. One of the leading contenders for the party’s ticket, Kayode Ojo, has openly declared that he will defeat incumbent Governor Biodun Oyebanji “on the field,” rejecting any notion of resolving the contest through petitions or backroom maneuvers. This bold statement comes amid growing political rivalries and allegations of attempts to undermine Ojo’s candidacy.

Ojo responds to petitions and outlines his focus

Speaking to journalists after appearing before the APC Governorship Screening Committee in Abuja on Tuesday, Kayode Ojo took a direct swipe at unnamed forces allegedly working against his political ambitions. Although Ojo did not specifically call out Governor Oyebanji, he hinted that some individuals within the party were using frivolous petitions to try to discredit him.

“Several petitions have been filed against me, and I will officially respond to them later today. But there is no cause for alarm,” Ojo stated. He made it clear that his primary focus is on securing the APC governorship ticket and ensuring that Ekiti supports President Bola Tinubu in the 2026 election.

Ojo added, “I did not petition the governor because our aim is to defeat him on the field, not in the boardroom.” This remark emphasized his commitment to running a fair campaign, one based on the electorate’s will, rather than internal political maneuvering.

Ojo’s loyalty to APC and President Tinubu

The aspirant was quick to defend his political integrity, asserting that he has always been a loyal party member and a staunch supporter of President Tinubu. He addressed accusations of anti-party activity, stressing that he has contributed to the party and its members through job creation, empowerment programs, and educational initiatives.

Rejecting any suggestion that he would step down for Governor Oyebanji or any other aspirant, Ojo made it clear: “We are in this race to win, and we are winning by God’s grace.” His statement underscored his determination to secure the APC ticket, regardless of the pressure from rival factions within the party.

Ojo confident about consensus, eyes APC ticket

Ojo also addressed the possibility of a consensus candidate being chosen by the party. While some within the APC have called for unity and an endorsement process, Ojo was confident that if consensus were to be reached, he would be the party’s preferred candidate. “If the party agrees for a consensus, I know that I will be the consensus candidate. Just be sure about that,” he declared with certainty.

His bold assertions highlight his belief in his political stature within the APC and his readiness to challenge anyone for the party’s nomination.

Abimbola Olajumoke Olawunmi also eyes APC ticket

Meanwhile, another aspirant for the APC ticket, Abimbola Olajumoke Olawunmi, also faced the screening panel. She presented her credentials as a strong contender, citing her background in entrepreneurship, youth and women empowerment, and her contributions to road construction projects in Ekiti. Olawunmi emphasized that her diverse experience and track record of public service made her a qualified candidate to lead the state.

However, Olawunmi’s candidacy was not without controversy. She raised an alarm over a petition allegedly filed against her, claiming that her confidential form had been leaked to rival camps. “Somebody had access to my form, and they need to answer for that,” she said, hinting at sabotage by those seeking to undermine her campaign.

Olawunmi stands firm, rejects calls to step down

Despite the allegations of sabotage, Olawunmi was firm in her decision to remain in the race. She ruled out stepping down for any other aspirant, emphasizing that only President Tinubu could convince her to withdraw. “If the president decides he has somebody else, I will step down. Any other person, no,” she asserted.

Her comments reflect a strong resolve to compete for the APC ticket on her own terms, regardless of the internal party dynamics.

A divided APC as Ekiti governorship race heats up

With multiple aspirants vying for the APC ticket and political maneuvering intensifying, the race for the 2026 Ekiti governorship election is shaping up to be a high-stakes contest. Both Kayode Ojo and Abimbola Olawunmi are determined to secure the nomination, but internal party divisions and external pressures could play a significant role in determining who ultimately emerges as the APC candidate.

As the campaign intensifies and political rivalries continue to simmer, the APC will need to navigate the delicate balance of maintaining unity within its ranks while preparing for what promises to be a fiercely contested election in Ekiti.