SDP backs Oyebanji ahead of Ekiti gov poll, pledges 25,000 votes
By Boye Oyeyemi
The Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Ekiti State has officially endorsed Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of Saturday’s June 20, 2026 governorship election.
The decision was announced during a press conference held in Ado-Ekiti by the SDP State Chairman, Hon. Ayodele Bamikole, who said the move followed wide consultations and careful evaluation of all candidates in the race.
“On behalf of all members of the SDP in the state, I formally and enthusiastically endorse His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, and Mrs Monisade Afuye in their bid for a second term in office,” Bamikole said.
He explained that the party’s candidate, Otunba Dr. Peter Olugbenga Obafemi, had not demonstrated meaningful engagement or campaign activities since emerging through a substitution primary, a situation that influenced the party’s decision.
Bamikole added that the endorsement was driven by Governor Oyebanji’s “exceptional leadership, transparency, and transformative developmental projects,” noting that continuity in governance remained essential for sustained progress in the state.
“Continuity is very crucial. As a party, we openly declare our support for our Omoluabi Governor with 25,000 votes come Saturday, June 20, 2026,” he stated.
He also raised concerns over alleged attacks on the party secretariat on June 17, 2026, claiming that “miscreants and agents of destabilisation” invaded the premises with dangerous weapons and made away with official materials, calling on security agencies, including the Inspector-General of Police, Rilwan Disu, to investigate and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The SDP chairman further maintained that the party remains a strong political force in Ekiti, recalling its performance in the 2022 governorship election where it polled about 84,000 votes and finished as runner-up, a claim he said reflects its enduring structure and relevance in the state.
