The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has published the final list of candidates cleared to contest the June 2026 Ekiti State governorship election, confirming a multi-party race involving 12 political parties.
The list, signed by INEC National Commissioner Mrs. Rose Oraran-Anthony, shows that all candidates will contest alongside their running mates.
According to INEC, the educational qualifications of the candidates and their deputies range from primary school certificates to doctorate degrees, sparking conversations among voters and political observers about the diversity of backgrounds represented.
Candidates cleared include those from the All Progressives Congress (APC), Labour Party (LP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), Action Democratic Party (ADP), Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), Young Progressives Party (YPP), and other political parties.
The incumbent governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, 58, will seek re-election on the APC platform, retaining his current deputy, Monisade Afuye, 67, as running mate.
The Labour Party has fielded Olajuyin Ikusayede Gbegbe Oyebanji, 67, with legal practitioner Okumade Ayokunle Odumayo as deputy candidate.
Among the younger contenders is Abegunde Ayobami Blessing, 35, of the NNPP, reflecting growing youth participation in Ekiti politics.
The African Action Congress (AAC) has also nominated Akande Oluwasegun Samuel, 36, with John Fajuyigbe Oluwasanmi as his running mate.
Other Candidates and Campaign Outlook
Other cleared candidates include Bejide Oluwadare Patrick (ADC), Ojo Ayodeji (ADP), Anifowose Joseph Olanrewaju (APM), Awogbemi Bidemi Olaiya (APP), Ayodele Olaniyi Olanrewaju Praise (PRP), Osinkolu Olusegun Ayodele (YPP), and Adetunji Victor Damilola (ZLP).
With the release of the final list, political parties are expected to intensify campaigns across the state.
The election as a critical test of voter sentiment amid economic hardship, governance concerns, and rising youth political engagement.
INEC reiterated its commitment to conducting a free, fair, and credible election, warning political parties and candidates to strictly adhere to the provisions of the Electoral Act and campaign guidelines.
The commission has fixed Saturday, June 20, 2026, for the conduct of the Ekiti State governorship election.
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