2026: ADC stakeholders seek deputy governorship slot for Ado-Ekiti

By Boye Oyeyemi –

Stakeholders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) from Ekiti Central Senatorial District, with the backing of some leaders in Ekiti North, have urged the party to zone its deputy governorship ticket to Ado-Ekiti ahead of the June 20, 2026 election.

The call was contained in a communiqué issued on Monday after a stakeholders’ meeting held in Ado-Ekiti and jointly signed by nine local government chairmen of the party.

The stakeholders congratulated the ADC governorship candidate, Ambassador Dare Bejide, on his emergence at the primaries, describing his victory as well earned.

They also praised the party’s national leadership, led by former Senate President David Mark, and the Ekiti State executives under Hon. Omotayo Ilesanmi for what they described as a transparent and rancour-free primary.

According to the communiqué, the ADC remains the only major party in the state whose primary election did not result in litigation, a development the leaders said reflected unity and internal democracy.

The stakeholders argued that since Bejide hails from Ekiti South Senatorial District, fairness and political balance require that the deputy governorship slot be ceded to Ekiti Central, with Ado-Ekiti favoured.

“Ado-Ekiti Local Government Area has the highest voting strength in Ekiti State, and historically, no serious governorship contender can succeed without substantial support from Ado,” the communiqué stated.

They urged the party’s national and state leadership to consider the request in the interest of inclusiveness and electoral success, noting that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is expected to publish the final list of candidates and running mates on January 19.