INEC Releases Final List of Candidates for June 2026 Ekiti Governorship Election

INEC has released the final list of candidates for the June 20, 2026 Ekiti governorship election, clearing 12 political parties for the race. Incumbent Governor Biodun Oyebanji will contest on the APC platform with Monisade Afuye as deputy, while the Labour Party fields Olajuyin Ikusayede Gbegbe Oyebanji. Younger contenders from NNPP and AAC are also in the race. Candidates’ qualifications range from primary school certificates to PhDs, sparking debate as campaigns intensify ahead of the poll.


#Ekiti2026 #INEC #GovernorshipElection #NigerianPolitics #EkitiDecides

Kwara Farmer Brutally Attacked by Bandits, Rescued by Vigilantes

In Koro community, Ekiti LGA, Kwara State, a farmer identified as Abayomi was violently attacked by bandits while tending his farmland near the Kogi border on Friday morning. The assailants inflicted severe injuries before fleeing, leaving the farmer in critical condition. Alerted residents quickly mobilized the Koro local vigilante group, who intervened and rescued Abayomi, rushing him to a nearby hospital for urgent medical care. Community members have expressed concern over the rising insecurity, highlighting the ongoing challenges posed by bandit attacks in the region and the critical role of local vigilantes in protecting citizens.

Why Is the ADC Inaugurating Zonal Congress Committees, Why Is It Rejecting Any Alliance With Atiku, Obi, Kwankwaso, and Jonathan, and What Does This Signal for Nigeria’s 2027 Politics?

A faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has moved to strengthen its internal structure by inaugurating Zonal Congress Committees across three geopolitical zones, while firmly rejecting widespread speculation that the party is aligning with major political figures such as Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and Goodluck Jonathan.

In a communique signed by the party’s National Chairman, Hon. Nafiu Bala Gombe, the ADC said the exercise was part of efforts to entrench internal democracy, transparency, and strict adherence to the party’s constitution ahead of future elections.

According to the statement, the South-West Zonal Congress Committee was inaugurated in Ekiti State on January 7, 2026, with Hon. Bala Sani named Chairman and Hon. Kyauta Yakubu heading the Appeal Committee. The ceremony was conducted by the National Chairman himself.

In the South-East, a similar inauguration took place in Enugu State on the same date. Barrister Adamu Ado Dauda was appointed Chairman of the Congress Committee, while Mrs. Iyabo Salami Alibi was named head of the Appeal Committee. The event was presided over by the Secretary of the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT), Chief Rufus Ekenmi.

Earlier, on January 5, 2026, the party inaugurated its North-Central Zonal Congress Committee, appointing Hon. Lolo Ehirudu as Chairman of the Congress Committee and Hon. Sa’ad Aboki as head of the Appeal Committee.

Beyond organisational matters, the ADC used the occasion to directly address growing rumours of a possible political alliance with prominent national figures. The party categorically dismissed claims linking it to Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, and former President Goodluck Jonathan.

“The National Leadership reiterates its unwavering commitment to the principles of internal democracy, transparency, and strict adherence to the party’s constitution,” the communique stated, urging members and the public to “disregard and ignore” all reports of external political alignments. The party stressed that its focus remains on building “a strong, independent, and ideologically driven platform.”

The ADC also emphasised that only duly registered and financially up-to-date members would be eligible to vote or contest in its congresses and internal elections, reinforcing its claim of commitment to internal order and party discipline.

By distancing itself from Nigeria’s most recognisable political heavyweights, the party appears determined to project itself as an independent alternative within the country’s democratic space—one that is not defined by elite coalitions or personality-driven politics.

As speculation continues over emerging alliances ahead of future elections, observers are asking: Why is the ADC rejecting any association with established political figures? Is the party positioning itself as a third-force movement, or is this a strategic move to consolidate its base before engaging in broader negotiations? And could this internal reorganisation reshape opposition politics in Nigeria ahead of 2027?

The ADC insists its direction is clear: no external alliances, strict internal democracy, and a people-centred political platform—a stance that may test both its independence and its appeal in Nigeria’s highly competitive political landscape.

Ekiti Assembly to Spend ₦1.2 Billion on Chairs, Tables and Vehicles in 2026—While Key Ministries Get Zero Funding: Is This Governance or Misplaced Priorities?

A review of the Ekiti State House of Assembly’s 2026 budget estimates by SaharaReporters has revealed a controversial plan to spend ₦1.2 billion on executive chairs, tables, cabinets and office furniture, despite the fact that ₦470 million was already spent on similar items in 2025. The proposed expenditure includes 700 executive chairs, 600 tables, 200 chamber tables, 100 cabinets, 50 office shelves and 12 chair sets, raising questions about fiscal responsibility and government priorities.

In addition to furniture, the Assembly is seeking ₦800 million to procure three 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado SUVs and 30 Toyota Corolla vehicles, further fueling concerns about luxury spending amid economic challenges facing the state.

This development follows earlier revelations that ₦300 million was budgeted for the construction of a governor’s and deputy governor’s lodge in Asokoro, Abuja, even though ₦470 million had already been spent on similar projects between January and September 2025. Another contract worth ₦320 million was reportedly awarded for the construction of a guest house chalet within the Government House, allegedly to a permanent secretary, raising transparency concerns.

While billions are allocated to official residences, vehicles and office furniture, a review of Ekiti State’s audited financial statements for 2024 shows that 35 government agencies received zero funding for capital projects, despite having a combined capital budget of ₦3.3 billion. Affected institutions include the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Ekiti State Pensions Board, Civil Service Commission, Housing Corporation, Fiscal Responsibility Commission, Office of Public Defender, Teaching Service Commission, University Teaching Hospital, and several others critical to governance, education, healthcare and public welfare.

The report also highlights a troubling pattern in public procurement, with multiple contracts worth billions of naira reportedly awarded to individuals listed as “Permanent Secretary.” These include airport-related projects such as the ₦3.3 billion Instrument Landing System, electrification works, transformer installations, floodlight systems, and road extensions, along with smaller procurements like buses and motorcycles.

Critics argue that the growing gap between lavish government spending and the chronic underfunding of essential agencies reflects a governance crisis. As calls for transparency, accountability and prudent use of public funds intensify, the question remains: Why are billions being committed to furniture, vehicles and government lodges while critical ministries and public institutions are left unfunded?

This controversy has once again placed Ekiti State’s budgeting priorities under national scrutiny, raising fundamental concerns about public trust, fiscal discipline and whether state resources are truly being used in the best interest of citizens.

PDP Plans Strategic Meetings with Peter Obi, Atiku, and Key Powerbrokers Ahead of 2027 Elections”

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced plans to engage with former presidential candidate Peter Obi, ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and other influential political figures as part of its strategy to rebuild the party ahead of the 2027 general elections. The announcement was made by Emmanuel Ogidi, PDP South-South Chairman, during an interview on Channels Television on Wednesday.
Ogidi revealed that the party has already begun consultations with key political actors, including former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Ibrahim Babangida (IBB), to signal that the PDP remains relevant despite internal challenges. He stressed that meetings with Obi and Atiku, both former PDP stalwarts now aligned with other political platforms, are part of a deliberate effort to reconnect with major opposition figures.
Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar were previously PDP vice presidential and presidential candidates in the 2019 and 2023 elections, respectively. The outreach reflects the PDP’s commitment to unifying opposition voices and strengthening its democratic credentials.
The PDP’s efforts coincide with ongoing preparations for off-season elections in Ekiti and Osun states, as well as the 2027 general elections. On Tuesday, the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) met with former President Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja. Led by National Chairman Tanimu Turaki, the delegation received Jonathan’s assurance of continued loyalty and active support for the PDP.
Turaki described the former president’s commitment as “very reassuring and encouraging”, highlighting the PDP’s determination to reorganize, strengthen internal cohesion, and mobilize key political actors ahead of critical upcoming elections.
The PDP’s outreach initiative is viewed as a strategic move to solidify its relevance in Nigeria’s political landscape, heal internal divisions, and present a united front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the years leading up to the 2027 polls.

“Why Was PDP’s Ekiti Governorship Candidate Oluyede Excluded From INEC List? Is Nigeria’s Electoral Process Transparent?”

Supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State have taken to the streets, staging a peaceful protest at the INEC state office in Ado-Ekiti, over the removal of their governorship candidate, Dr Wole Oluyede, from the official candidate list for the 2026 election. The protest highlights growing concerns about transparency, accountability, and fairness in Nigeria’s electoral process.
Dr Oluyede, officially declared the PDP flagbearer by the party’s National Working Committee led by Tanimu Turaki (SAN), was shocked to find his name missing from INEC’s portal despite INEC previously supervising and confirming his emergence during party primaries. Supporters insist that the exclusion raises serious questions about due process and the integrity of the electoral system.
INEC officials in Ekiti stated that only the national headquarters can provide an official explanation, leaving party members and voters anxious and frustrated. The incident has sparked widespread debate about whether powerful party factions and bureaucratic lapses are undermining the rightful representation of voters.
This situation begs urgent questions: Why was Dr Oluyede removed despite legal recognition as PDP’s candidate? Is the electoral body acting transparently? What does this mean for democracy in Ekiti and across Nigeria?
Fintter readers, we want to hear from you: Should INEC be more accountable to voters in situations like this? How can Nigeria ensure that party candidates are not unfairly excluded? Join the conversation in the comments and share your thoughts.

Kayode Ojo Campaign Accuses Oyebanji Government of Harassment, Secret Detention and Intimidation of APC Supporters Ahead of Ekiti 2026 Election

The campaign organisation of APC governorship aspirant Engineer Kayode Ojo has accused the Ekiti State Government under Governor Biodun Oyebanji of intimidation, unlawful arrests, harassment and secret detention of its members ahead of the 2026 governorship election. In a statement obtained by SaharaReporters, the group alleged that state authorities, in collaboration with security agencies, are targeting party members who support Ojo, treating them as “enemies” within the same party. The campaign highlighted several cases of alleged persecution, including the arrest and secret detention of Akogun Abayomi, popularly known as Lustay, who was reportedly denied access to his family, lawyers and medication without formal charges. The organisation also accused the Rapid Response Squad of political coercion, judicial bias, and abuse of police powers, while calling on the Inspector-General of Police, the National Judicial Council and prominent national figures to intervene. It demanded the immediate release of all detained supporters and an independent investigation, warning that repression, fear and internal party intimidation threaten democracy, rule of law and political freedom in Ekiti State.

#EkitiPolitics #KayodeOjo #Oyebanji #APC #2026Election #HumanRights #PoliticalIntimidation #NigeriaPolitics #RuleOfLaw

Ekiti 2026: APC Aspirant Kayode Ojo’s Supporters Allege Police Arrests, Intimidation and Secret Detention Under Governor Oyebanji as Party Crisis Deepens

Supporters of Engineer Kayode Ojo, an aspirant in the 2026 Ekiti State governorship race on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), have accused the Ekiti State Government and the police of sustained intimidation, arrests and harassment aimed at silencing dissent within the ruling party. The allegations were contained in a statement signed by the spokesperson of the Kayode Ojo Campaign Organisation, Femi Awojobi, who described the situation as a serious threat to democracy, rule of law and internal party freedom in the state.

According to the campaign, APC members who openly or quietly support Ojo have been targeted through arrests, unlawful detention and intimidation, allegedly under the administration of Governor Abayomi Oyebanji. Several party members across different local government areas were named as victims, including ward executives, women and youth leaders, raising concerns about what the group called a deliberate attempt to crush alternative political opinions within the APC.

The statement highlighted the arrest and alleged secret detention of Akogun Abayomi, popularly known as Lustay, as the most alarming case. Abayomi was reportedly arrested on January 1, 2026, by police officers without a warrant or explanation and denied access to his family, lawyers and medication. The campaign alleged that police initially denied holding him, only for his wife to later discover his vehicle inside the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) premises, sparking fears of abuse of power and lack of transparency.

The group further alleged that Abayomi was subjected to political intimidation, including pressure to renounce his support for Kayode Ojo, and accused the police of acting as a political tool. Describing the situation as a national embarrassment, the campaign called on the Inspector-General of Police, the National Judicial Council, civil society organisations and prominent Ekiti stakeholders to intervene, investigate alleged abuses and ensure the immediate release of all supporters detained over their political beliefs.

Alleged Attempted Murder: Ekiti Court Remands Man Who Challenged Governor Oyebanji’s Candidature Over Armed Robbery, Conspiracy, And Weapons Charges

An Ekiti State Chief Magistrate Court has ordered the remand of Akogun Abayomi Olumide, also known as “Lustay,” in correctional custody over allegations of conspiracy to commit robbery, armed robbery, attempted murder, unlawful possession of offensive weapons, and malicious damage. The remand followed a police application pending legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions. Olumide’s arrest comes weeks after he filed a suit at the Federal High Court in Abuja challenging the candidature of Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji. Police allege that investigations linked him to violent attacks on several individuals, claims Olumide has strongly denied, insisting he is not a robber and had no involvement in political violence. The court granted the police request, ordering his detention at the Ado-Ekiti Correctional Centre while investigations and legal review continue.

PDP Heads to Court as INEC Excludes Oluwole Oluyede From 2026 Ekiti Governorship List, Accuses Electoral Body of Bias and Partisanship

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced plans to seek legal action against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over the exclusion of its candidate, Dr. Oluwole Oluyede, from the official list of contestants for the 2026 Ekiti State governorship election. In a statement issued on December 30, 2025, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, described INEC’s action as further evidence of bias against the opposition party. The PDP maintained that INEC was duly notified of its governorship primaries, monitored the exercise, and issued reports confirming that the process complied with all legal requirements. The party also alleged that INEC initially provided nomination portal access codes before later blocking them close to the submission deadline, forcing a manual submission that was officially acknowledged. According to the PDP, there was no court order or formal challenge disputing Oluyede’s nomination, making his exclusion unjustified. The party argued that the safest and most lawful step would have been for INEC to include its candidate’s name pending any legal disputes. Warning that perceived partiality could undermine democratic credibility, the PDP said it had already begun legal proceedings to compel INEC to recognise its candidate and uphold electoral neutrality ahead of the 2026 polls.

Fayose Releases Documents Showing Oyo Governor Makinde Received N50 Billion from Tinubu’s Government After Ibadan Explosion

Former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose has released documents claiming that Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde received N50 billion from the federal government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a special intervention fund following the January 2024 Ibadan explosion. According to Fayose, only N4.5 billion of the fund was released to victims, while the remainder was allegedly diverted to support Makinde’s presidential ambitions, sparking tensions within the PDP. Fayose challenged Makinde to sue him and stated he has additional proof of undisclosed intervention funds provided to the Oyo State Government by Tinubu’s administration.

NDLEA Destroys Cannabis Warehouses, Seizes Narcotics, and Arrests Businessman Over Lagos Port ‘Loud’ Shipment

Between December 21 and 25, 2025, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) conducted nationwide anti-narcotics operations across Ekiti, Edo, Cross River, Abuja, Lagos, Taraba, and Gombe states. Agents destroyed cannabis warehouses, seized large quantities of drugs, and arrested several traffickers. In Ara-Ekiti, 638kg of skunk cannabis was burned. In Edo, 883.1kg of compressed cannabis was intercepted. Cross River and Abuja operations led to multiple arrests, while in Lagos, Ajoke Dauda and Oluwasegun Felix were apprehended with 45.5kg and 18.5kg of skunk, respectively. Taraba and Gombe also recorded arrests and drug seizures. Notably, businessman Ignatius Egbochie (alias Brown) was arrested in connection with 26kg of high-grade cannabis (“Loud”) seized at Tincan Port on December 10. NDLEA emphasized its commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks nationwide.

Prophet Muyiwa Akogun’s November Prophecy About Streamer Peller Sparks Reactions Following His Car Accident

Prophet Muyiwa Akogun of God’s City, Ekiti, made a prophecy in November 2025 regarding Nigerian streamer Habeeb Hamzat, popularly known as Peller, which gained attention after Peller’s recent car accident. The cleric predicted that another accident would occur in February 2026, leaving Peller disabled but not claiming his life. Fans and church elders have urged Peller’s family to take the prophecy seriously and pray for him. The prophecy emphasizes the need for intervention and guidance, with the cleric noting that God has provided a solution. Social media reactions have flooded in, with many expressing concern and calling for support for the content creator.

Turaki-Led PDP Accuses INEC of Bias, Insists Wike’s ‘Committee of Friends’ Is Not a Faction Amid Leadership Dispute

The Kabiru Tanimu Turaki-led leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of hypocrisy and sustained bias, insisting that there is no faction within the party despite claims by the electoral body. In a strongly worded statement, the PDP faulted INEC’s refusal to recognise and upload the names of its elected National Working Committee members following the party’s November 2025 convention in Ibadan, Oyo State.
According to the party, INEC’s position—anchored on subsisting Federal High Court judgments—is misleading, as those judgments have already been appealed with applications for stay of execution before the Court of Appeal. The PDP further alleged that INEC deliberately suppressed key facts in court, including its own role in monitoring PDP National Executive Committee meetings, the convention process, and party primaries conducted in Osun and Ekiti states under the current leadership.
Warning against interference in internal party affairs, the PDP cited recent Supreme Court rulings barring INEC from meddling in party leadership disputes. It maintained that all legitimate organs of the party, including the Board of Trustees, Governors’ Forum, National Assembly caucuses, and state chairmen, recognise the Turaki-led NWC. The party dismissed the Wike-backed “committee of friends” as illegitimate, urging members to remain calm while the legal process continues.

#PDP
#INEC
#NigerianPolitics

Breaking: President Bola Tinubu Congratulates Ex-President Goodluck Jonathan on His 68th Birthday, Praises Humility, Statesmanship, and Democratic Contributions

President Bola Tinubu has extended heartfelt congratulations to former President Goodluck Jonathan on his 68th birthday, celebrating his life, leadership, and contributions to Nigeria’s democracy. In a message reflecting on Jonathan’s humility and diplomatic approach, Tinubu praised the former president’s statesmanship during the 2015 elections, noting how it strengthened democratic institutions and elevated Nigeria’s global standing. He recalled their past collaborations, highlighting Jonathan’s guidance and support that influenced Tinubu’s own political journey. Beyond domestic politics, Tinubu acknowledged Jonathan’s international efforts in promoting democratic values across Africa. The President also offered prayers for Jonathan, his wife Patience, and their family, wishing them continued health and happiness. The message underscores a rare moment of unity and respect between current and former Nigerian leaders, celebrating the legacy of public service and integrity. This tribute, following similar felicitations to other political figures like former Ekiti Governor Peter Ayodele Fayose, reflects Tinubu’s commitment to honoring leadership, resilience, and dedication to nation-building.

Tears as Respected Ekiti Traditional Leader and Retired DIG Theophillus Akeredolu Dies at 83, Nigeria Police Mourn

The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the death of Theophillus Adetunji Akeredolu, a retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police and respected traditional leader who served as the Chief Aremo of Afao, Ikere-Ekiti, in Ekiti State. Akeredolu passed away at the age of 83, prompting an outpouring of tributes from the police hierarchy, traditional institutions, and the Ekiti community. In a statement by police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin, the force described him as an illustrious officer whose legacy of service, leadership, and integrity remains inspirational. Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun also expressed condolences to his family and the people of Ekiti State. Throughout his distinguished career, Akeredolu held several strategic positions within the Nigeria Police Force before retiring in 2002, earning national honours, including the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).

Ekiti Teacher Appeals for Help After Alleged Illegal Removal of Both Kidneys During Surgery at Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital

A 39-year-old Ekiti State teacher, Joshua Afolayan, has appealed for urgent help after allegedly losing both kidneys following a routine surgical procedure at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital. Afolayan, who was admitted after a road accident in August 2025, said doctors initially agreed to remove only his damaged right kidney, as medical scans confirmed that his left kidney was fully functional. However, after the surgery, he claimed hospital officials failed to release post-operative scan results, raising suspicions that later proved devastating when it was discovered that both kidneys had been removed without his consent. Afolayan further alleged that hospital staff later attempted to justify the action by claiming he had a “horseshoe kidney,” a condition not detected in any pre-surgery scans. Now dependent on regular dialysis and suffering chronic pain, the father of three said the hospital has only provided limited support despite the severity of his condition. Although the Ekiti State Government has reportedly set up an investigative panel, Afolayan insists urgent intervention is needed to save his life and secure proper medical care, warning that continued inaction could prove fatal.

Ekiti University Teaching Hospital Dismisses Surgeon for Secretly Removing Patient’s Kidney

Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH) has terminated a surgeon who secretly removed a patient’s kidney during a procedure, following a panel of inquiry that confirmed the allegation. The state’s Health Commissioner, Dr. Oyebanji Filani, stated that the surgical team members present will be suspended for one month pending further review. The government pledged to cover the full cost of a new kidney transplant and post-transplant care for the affected patient. The incident has sparked public outrage, with calls for criminal prosecution and full disclosure of the surgeon’s identity to prevent future violations of patient safety.

Alleged Organ Harvesting Scandal: Ekiti Government Dismisses EKSUTH Surgeon, Suspends Surgical Team, Approves New Kidney Transplant for Patient

The Ekiti State Government has taken decisive action following allegations of organ harvesting at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), dismissing the surgeon who led a controversial kidney surgery and suspending other members of the surgical team. The decision followed the submission of findings by a seven-member Panel of Enquiry investigating claims by patient Joshua Afolayan, who alleged that both his kidneys were removed without consent during surgery. In response, the state approved a fresh kidney transplant and two years of post-transplant medical care for the patient, ordered a reorganisation of key hospital departments, and pledged wide-ranging reforms to strengthen clinical governance, accountability, and public confidence in Ekiti’s healthcare system.

INEC Hosts PDP Factions

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC has met with the two factions of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP at its headquarters in Abuja.

The meetings aims at resolving the lingering leadership crisis within the PDP.

Chairman of the Commission Prof. Joash Amupitan says INEC has the responsibility in line with its mandate to resolve issues within political parties especially ahead of the FCT area councils election, Ekiti and Osun off cycle governorship elections.

On the entourage of the kabiru Turaki led national working committee is BoT chairman Senator Adolphus Wabara, former Governor of Niger state Dr Muazu Babangida Aliyu, among others.

The Abdulrahaman Mohammed-led national working committee is accompanying by Senator Samuel Anyanwu, Captain Umar Bature and a host of others.