In what political observers have described as one of the most transparent and peaceful primaries in recent times, Dr. Wole Oluyede has emerged as the winner of the Ekiti State People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Governorship Primary Election, securing 279 votes to defeat his closest rival, Prince F. Ayeni, who polled 239 votes. Mrs. Funmi Ogun came third with 17 votes, in a contest that drew commendation from party members and political analysts across the state.
The election, held on Saturday in Ado-Ekiti, was supervised by officials of the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) and monitored by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Delegates from all sixteen local government areas of the state participated in the exercise, which was conducted under tight security to ensure a smooth and credible process.
Dr. Oluyede’s victory marks a significant step for the Ekiti PDP as it positions itself to reclaim power in the 2026 governorship election scheduled for June. His emergence has been hailed by supporters as a reflection of the will of the people and a demonstration of internal democracy within the party.
Speaking after the announcement of results, Dr. Oluyede expressed appreciation to the delegates, party leaders, and supporters for their confidence in his leadership. He pledged to unify all members of the party ahead of the general election and to build on the foundation of equity, transparency, and service to the people of Ekiti State.
Political observers have also lauded the PDP for conducting what they described as a “free, fair, and acceptable election”, a rare example of internal democracy in Nigeria’s contemporary political space. According to many, the peaceful outcome of the primary proves that the PDP remains a model for other political parties in organizing credible and transparent intra-party elections.
As the countdown begins toward June 2026, the PDP in Ekiti State now faces the crucial task of uniting its members, consolidating its base, and preparing for what promises to be a fiercely contested governorship election.
