Tensions Mount in Ekiti APC Over Early Endorsement of Governor Oyebanji for Second Term

A simmering political storm is brewing within the Ekiti State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the recent endorsement of Governor Biodun Oyebanji for a second term has sparked backlash from within the party. A group of concerned elders and youths, led by Chief Olaofe Adeniran, has accused the governor of attempting to impose himself as the party’s flagbearer ahead of the 2026 governorship election.

The controversy stems from the formation of a 24-member “BAO State Endorsement Committee,” named after the governor’s initials. The committee, reportedly chaired by former Deputy Governor Abiodun Aluko, was established by some party stakeholders who praised Oyebanji’s performance and expressed support for his continuity in office. However, this move is being interpreted by some party members as a violation of party guidelines and a disregard for internal democracy.

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Accusations of Disrespect and Political Intolerance

The concerned group alleges that Governor Oyebanji’s involvement in the early endorsement process demonstrates “disdain, disrespect, and flagrant disobedience” to President Bola Tinubu and the APC National Working Committee. According to them, Tinubu’s repeated call for internal party democracy is being undermined by what they describe as premature succession politics.

They argue that the formation of the endorsement committee, without a directive from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), contravenes both the APC constitution and the Electoral Act. “The governor’s actions are not only politically insensitive but also dangerous to party unity,” the group said.

In a strongly worded statement, the group further warned that such political maneuvers could weaken the APC’s grip on the state, especially with President Tinubu’s insistence on free and fair primaries. They implored Tinubu, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and other key figures to caution Oyebanji before the situation escalates.

APC Publicity Secretary Denies Allegations

In response to the allegations, Ekiti APC Publicity Secretary Segun Dipe dismissed the critics as an unrecognized group without credibility. He insisted that the endorsement committee was not initiated by Governor Oyebanji but rather by party stakeholders exercising their political rights.

According to Dipe, political endorsements are common and do not equate to the commencement of an election campaign. “This is simply part of the natural political activity,” he stated. “The governor has not declared his intention to run, and there is no official committee set up by him. If there were, it would be publicly announced by his chief press secretary.”

Dipe also defended the actions of those endorsing Oyebanji, saying they are merely expressing confidence in a leader who has “delivered good governance and democracy dividends.” He emphasized that the 1999 Constitution and the APC constitution both allow a governor to seek a second term, and no law has been broken.

A Clash Between Loyalty and Principle

The discord appears to stem from more than just procedure. Critics of the endorsement see it as an orchestrated attempt to close the democratic space and prevent other competent aspirants from contesting the party’s ticket. They also questioned the motive behind the planned mega rally to promote the governor, labeling it a “wasteful and insecure attempt” to manufacture consent.

“This rush to anoint a candidate, well before the political season has even begun, raises serious concerns,” the group noted. “It sends a message of fear and autocracy rather than confidence and democracy.”

The group challenged Oyebanji to focus on governance instead of electioneering, warning that his approach may alienate voters and trigger internal party fractures that could benefit the opposition in 2026.

Endorsement vs. Electoral Process: A Fine Line

While the APC leadership in the state continues to dismiss the concerns, the incident raises broader questions about the fine line between early endorsements and political imposition. In Nigerian politics, incumbents often enjoy an advantage, but overt moves to secure party tickets prematurely can lead to internal dissent and voter apathy.

Political analysts suggest that this early endorsement battle may test the APC’s internal cohesion in Ekiti, especially if more aspirants emerge and feel marginalized. The calls for strict adherence to the party’s constitution and President Tinubu’s commitment to transparent primaries could further shape how this issue unfolds.

Looking Ahead

As the state awaits INEC’s timetable and the official start of the 2026 election cycle, the APC in Ekiti has a choice: manage internal disagreements through dialogue and fairness, or risk the consequences of factional politics. Whether Oyebanji will officially declare his intention to run remains unknown, but the current controversy has already placed his leadership style and political strategy under public scrutiny.