Political commentator Olajumoke Victor has projected that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) will retain power in the 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State, scheduled for Saturday, June 20. Victor shared his analysis in an interview, emphasizing that political projections require caution due to multiple influencing factors.
Key Factors in the Projection
Victor noted that voter turnout, last-minute political developments, and campaign effectiveness could significantly affect the election outcome. He based his prediction on current political realities, highlighting the APC's incumbency advantage and established political structure in the state. However, he acknowledged that opposition parties could pose a challenge if they effectively mobilize voters and capitalize on public concerns.
Competing Parties and Voter Turnout
Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the APC will face candidates from 15 other parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The Ekiti governorship election expects a turnout of 1,059,360 registered voters, an increase of 66,000 compared to the 2022 election. The APC benefits from federal and state machinery, with all State House of Assembly members and federal lawmakers belonging to the party, making it the dominant political force in the state.
Victor suggested that the PDP might finish behind the ADC in the election. The ADC has re-established itself as a coalition movement party, led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who was the party's presidential candidate in the 2027 general elections.
International Observers
In related news, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, announced that the United Kingdom will deploy observers to monitor the Ekiti and Osun governorship elections. Montgomery made this statement during a visit to APC national chairman Professor Nentawe Yilwatda. The UK respects Nigeria's sovereignty but has a keen interest in the country's democratic and economic progress.
