Ekiti 2026: The request I made to Oyebanji during his visit – Oluyede

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the recently concluded Ekiti State governorship election, Dr. Wole Oluyede, has explained what he asked of the All Progressives Congress (APC) flagbearer and election winner, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, during a visit to his home in Ikere-Ekiti.

Oluyede had earlier rejected the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) declaration of the results, alleging that the electoral process was compromised by technical failures and overt financial inducements.

When the Returning Officer, Prof. Adenike Oladiji, announced the results, Oyebanji of the APC was declared the victor with 319,224 votes. Oluyede of the PDP received 40,543 votes, while the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate, Ambassador Dare Bejide, trailed with 12,872 votes.

Speaking to journalists in Ado-Ekiti about Governor Oyebanji’s unexpected post‑election visit, Oluyede said the governor claimed he was unaware of the arrests of his supporters but pledged to investigate the security agencies’ actions.

Oluyede noted that the only request he made was for the release of his detained members, arguing that democracy cannot thrive if people are prevented from exercising their convictions.

His remarks were as follows:

“If I lost in a free, fair and credible contest, I would have no difficulty accepting the outcome.”

“However, if there was widespread negligence, misconduct, intimidation, or disregard for established electoral procedures, then we must confront those realities honestly.”

“I am not leaving politics. There is no personal conflict between Governor Oyebanji and myself. Politics should not be viewed as warfare, but I am equally committed to principles, accountability and the continuous improvement of our democracy.”

“Concerning reports that some of my supporters have been arrested or harassed, I raised the matter directly with Governor Oyebanji during his visit. It was, in fact, the only request I made of him.”

“He assured me that he was unaware of the incidents and promised to investigate the matter. I have reason to believe steps are already being taken to address these concerns.”