As the 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State draws closer, political activities are gathering momentum with aspirants across major parties already picking up their nomination and expression of interest forms. Both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have realized hundreds of millions of naira from the exercise.
The APC has so far generated a total of ₦120 million from four aspirants. Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, who is seeking re-election, obtained his form with a payment of ₦50 million. He was joined by Engr. Kayode Olubunmi Ojo, another top contender, who also paid ₦50 million. Two female aspirants, Mrs. Abimbola Olajumoke Olawumi and Mrs. Omolayo Oluremi A., added ₦10 million each, bringing the total sum realized by the APC to ₦120 million.
The PDP has, however, surpassed the APC in revenue from the sale of forms, having raked in ₦160 million. Four aspirants have obtained the party’s governorship forms. They include Dr. Olumayokun Oluwole Oluyede, Dr. Funso Ayeni, and Otunba Peter Obafemi, each of whom paid ₦50 million. Another aspirant, Mrs. Funmilayo Ogun, secured her form with ₦10 million, completing the list.
For now, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has yet to release its governorship nomination forms, leaving aspirants under its platform on hold as the political space tightens in Ekiti.
Observers note that the huge amounts realized by both APC and PDP highlight the seriousness of the contest ahead. While some political commentators argue that the high cost of forms may limit the field to only wealthy aspirants, others believe it is a sign of commitment and readiness from those willing to govern the state.
As the countdown to 2026 continues, attention will shift to the primaries of the major political parties to determine who eventually emerges as flagbearers in what promises to be one of the most competitive governorship races in Ekiti’s political history.
