Ekiti 2026: APC, SDP Clash Over Governor Oyebanji’s Performance Ahead of Governorship Race
As the 2026 Ekiti State governorship election approaches, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP) are at odds over Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s performance in key areas such as infrastructure, agriculture, security, jobs, and tourism.
SDP State Chairman Bamikole Ayodele, speaking in Ado Ekiti on Thursday, criticized Oyebanji’s tenure, arguing that his administration has underperformed. “Governor Oyebanji should desist from playing politics with the resources of the state. He is not giving us the best. His election promises are not being fulfilled.
Look at the state of infrastructure, there is nothing that can be pointed to as achievements of the present administration in the state,” Ayodele said. He accused the governor of mismanaging state funds, neglecting agriculture despite Ekiti’s fertile land, and failing to address security concerns.
Ayodele proposed establishing farm settlements with modern facilities like internet, electricity, and roads in each of the 16 local governments to employ young graduates. He also called for improved security to ensure safety on roads and farms, free from kidnapping and crime.
Ayodele further alleged that Oyebanji’s favoritism and nepotism have worsened unemployment, urging him to act as the governor of all Ekiti residents, not just APC supporters. “The provision of jobs should not be on the basis of APC,” he stated, predicting an SDP victory in 2026 to “rescue the state.”
In response, APC State Publicity Secretary Segun Dipe dismissed the SDP’s claims, asserting that Oyebanji has excelled across all sectors. “As a matter of fact, the governor has done well in all areas, particularly infrastructure, agriculture, security, tourism, and job creation.
The SDP is in comatose, they are only seeking attention,” Dipe said. He highlighted achievements such as restored electricity in communities previously without power for years, improved rural roads like those in Ijesa Isu, and advancements in agriculture and tourism.
Dipe argued that the SDP lacks the capacity to challenge APC, calling their claims a bid for relevance. “The governor has done spectacularly well, and people are giving him kudos.
It is the voice of the people, and the voice of the people is the voice of God,” he added, downplaying SDP’s electoral prospects for 2026.
The disagreement underscores the intensifying political rivalry as Ekiti prepares for the 2026 election, with Oyebanji’s performance shaping the narrative for both parties.
