The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Monday published the provisional list of candidates for the Ekiti State governorship and deputy governorship election scheduled for June 20, 2026.
The list, displayed at INEC’s office on New Iyin Road, Ado-Ekiti, includes candidates from 12 political parties. The All Progressives Congress (APC) is presenting the incumbent governor, Biodun Oyebanji, 58, alongside his deputy, Monisade Afuye, 67.
Other candidates on the list include Opeyemi Falegan, 41, of the Accord Party, with Omoyemi Olaleye, 42, as running mate; Akande Oluwasegun, 36, of the African Action Congress, paired with Oluwasanmi Fajuyigbe; and Ayodeji Ojo, 42, of the Action Democratic Party, with Itunu Ibitoye, 35.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is fielding Oluwadare Bejide, 66, and Paul Olowoyeye, 52, while the Action People’s Party (APP) has nominated Bidemi Awogbemi, 36, with Akinyemi Adewumi, 53. Other participating parties include the Allied People’s Movement, Labour Party, New Nigeria People’s Party, People’s Redemption Party, Young Progressive Party, and Zenith Labour Party.
INEC sources explained that one party was omitted from the list due to unresolved leadership disputes currently before the courts. The commission added that the provisional list will be updated on January 19, 2026, in line with the Electoral Act 2022, as parties conclude substitutions and settle outstanding legal matters ahead of the election.