Oyebanji Emerges APC Consensus Candidate for Ekiti Election

The All Progressives Congress has formally informed the Independent National Electoral Commission of its decision to adopt a consensus process for the selection of its governorship candidate in Ekiti State ahead of the October 27 off-cycle election.

In a letter dated October 13, 2025, and acknowledged by INEC on the same day, the party said the shift from a direct primary to a consensus mode followed the withdrawal of one of the two cleared aspirants. The correspondence, signed by APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda and National Secretary Ajibola Basiru, confirmed that Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji will now be the party’s consensus flag bearer.

The APC explained that its initial plan was to hold a direct primary involving Governor Oyebanji and Mrs. Atinuke Oluremi Omolayo. However, Mrs. Omolayo voluntarily withdrew from the race and endorsed the incumbent governor, leaving him as the only aspirant.

Citing Section 84(11) of the Electoral Act 2022, the party said the withdrawal required a change in the mode of primary to a consensus arrangement. The APC noted that Mrs. Omolayo’s written consent endorsing Oyebanji had been submitted as part of the documentation for compliance.

The party announced that a special nomination congress will take place on Monday, October 27, at 10 a.m. at the Ekiti State Pavilion in Ado-Ekiti, where Oyebanji’s candidacy will be ratified. The congress will serve as the final step in confirming his nomination under electoral guidelines.

Ahead of the ratification, the APC adjusted its schedule of activities to include a delegate congress on Saturday, October 25, and an appeal session on Sunday, October 26.

INEC has been notified to monitor the exercise as required by law.

With this development, Governor Oyebanji stands as the sole candidate of the APC in the forthcoming Ekiti governorship election, clearing the path for his official return as the party’s nominee.