The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially set its sights on reclaiming power in Ekiti State, with its candidate for the 2026 governorship election declaring an unwavering confidence in victory.
Oluyede Presents Certificate, Outlines Vision for Ekiti
Dr Wole Oluyede, the Australia-based medical doctor who will represent the PDP in the June 20, 2026 poll, formally received his Certificate of Return from the party's National Working Committee led by Kabiru Taminu Turaki in Abuja on Wednesday, 10 December 2025.
Addressing a stakeholders' meeting at the party's secretariat in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday, Oluyede presented the certificate to leaders from the state's three senatorial districts. He expressed gratitude for the support and framed the event as a pivotal moment for the party's resurgence.
"All of you are here today because of the love you have for me and the PDP," Oluyede stated. "This shows that Ekiti PDP is ready and prepared to take over this state by 20 June 2026 by the special grace of God." He directly challenged the incumbent, asserting his intention to defeat Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
A Campaign Built on Issues and Economic Revival
Oluyede pledged to run an issue-based campaign, sharply criticising the current state of infrastructure and wealth creation in Ekiti. He outlined key pillars of his proposed administration's focus.
His primary agenda includes:
- Wealth Creation: Shifting the economic mindset from sustenance to prosperity.
- Health Sector Improvement: Committing to significant upgrades in healthcare delivery.
- Agricultural Revolution: Moving from basic farming to commercial and industrial agriculture to leverage the state's agrarian nature.
"My campaign would be issue-based. In the area of infrastructure, we are nowhere to be found. We are not creating wealth, and I will always talk about that," he emphasised. Oluyede also called on all eligible voters in Ekiti without Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to register immediately to participate in the decisive election.
Party Leaders Rally Behind the Candidate
The event served as a major rallying point for the PDP in the South-West. Chief Sanya Atofarati, the PDP's South West Publicity Secretary, boldly told the gathering, "On behalf of the South West of the PDP, please tell Governor Biodun Oyebanji to begin to write his handover note."
The state Chairman of the PDP, Tunji Odeyemi, highlighted the significance of the Abuja certificate presentation, noting the presence of various dignitaries at the Shehu Musa Yar'Adua Hall. "The race to the Government House in 2026 has started in earnest," he declared.
Adding to the chorus of confidence, former Chairman of Ado-Ekiti Local Government, Hon. Deji Ogunsakin, stated, "This is the end of APC in Ekiti State. You are the next Governor of Ekiti State come 2026 by the special grace of God."
With the certificate now in hand and the battle lines drawn, the stage is set for a fiercely contested governorship race in Ekiti State, with the PDP aiming to disrupt the APC's hold on power.
