The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the final list of candidates cleared to contest the Ekiti State governorship election scheduled for Saturday, June 20, 2026.
The list, signed by INEC National Commissioner, Rose Oraran-Anthony, shows that 12 political parties will participate in the election, with each governorship candidate running alongside a deputy. The candidates’ educational qualifications range from primary school certificates to doctorate degrees.
According to the commission, the approved parties include the All Progressives Congress (APC), Labour Party (LP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), Action Democratic Party (ADP), Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), Young Progressives Party (YPP), and others.
The incumbent governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, 58, will seek re-election on the platform of the APC, with Monisade Afuye, 67, as his running mate.
The Labour Party has nominated Olajuyin Ikusayede Gbegbe Oyebanji, 67, as its governorship candidate, with legal practitioner Okumade Ayokunle Odumayo as deputy governorship candidate.
Among the younger aspirants is Abegunde Ayobami Blessing, 35, representing the NNPP. The African Action Congress (AAC) has fielded Akande Oluwasegun Samuel, 36, as its candidate, with John Fajuyigbe Oluwasanmi as running mate.
Other candidates on the list include Bejide Oluwadare Patrick (ADC), Ojo Ayodeji (ADP), Anifowose Joseph Olanrewaju (APM), Awogbemi Bidemi Olaiya (APP), Ayodele Olaniyi Olanrewaju Praise (PRP), Osinkolu Olusegun Ayodele (YPP), and Adetunji Victor Damilola (ZLP).
INEC noted the wide disparity in educational qualifications among the candidates and their deputies, a development that has generated public interest and debate in the state.
With the release of the final list, political parties are expected to intensify campaigns ahead of the poll, which is regarded as a key test of voter sentiment in Ekiti State amid economic challenges and growing youth political participation.
INEC reiterated its commitment to conducting a free, fair, and credible election, warning parties and candidates to strictly adhere to electoral laws and campaign regulations.
