‘I’m the next governor of Ekiti,’ says NNPP flag bearer

• vows to unseat Gov. Oyebanji

By Boye Oyeyemi –

An entrepreneur, Mr Blessing Abegunde, has emerged as the governorship candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) for the 2026 Ekiti State election and declared that he would defeat Governor Biodun Oyebanji in a free and fair contest.

Abegunde, who hails from Isinbode Ekiti, was unanimously elected after other aspirants stepped down for him at the party’s primary election held in Ado-Ekiti.

Speaking during the exercise, which was witnessed by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the NNPP State Chairman, Mr Adelusi Ayeni, described Abegunde’s emergence as a major boost for the party.

He noted that Abegunde’s youthfulness and entrepreneurial background would help the party connect with the electorate.

Also, the Chairman of the NNPP Electoral Committee, Prince Ade Ajayi, commended the peaceful conduct of the primary, describing it as a reflection of the positive change the party seeks to bring to governance if elected.

In his acceptance speech, Abegunde pledged to lead with integrity, unite party members, and run an issue-based campaign focused on good governance and youth empowerment.

He assured party supporters of a vigorous campaign that would mobilise massive grassroots support ahead of the polls.

Abegunde declared confidently that he would defeat Governor Biodun Oyebanji in a free and fair contest, saying, “I’m the next Governor of Ekiti.”