Dr. Oluwole Oluyede, has emerged as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State.
Oluyede was declared winner of the primary election held on Saturday, after polling 279 votes as announced by Chairman of the Electoral Panel and former Governor of Gombe State, Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, Dr. Funso Ayeni scored 239 votes to while Mrs. Funmilayo Ogun had 17 votes. Another aspirant, Mr. Peter Obafemi, stepped down for Oluyede prior to the commencement of voting.
In his acceptance remarks, Dr. Oluyede expressed profound appreciation to party delegates, supporters and leaders whose collective effort contributed to his victory. He dedicated the win to all members of the PDP, assuring that the outcome would not produce losers, but rather, partners in progress.
“I extend my love and respect to my fellow aspirants. We are all champions of democracy. The maturity, fairness and camaraderie displayed during this contest show that internal democracy is alive in Ekiti PDP,” he stated.
Oluyede commended the party’s national leadership, particularly Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, and South-West leaders including Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, for ensuring a transparent and level playing field. He added that the primary election has further strengthened public confidence in the PDP as a party committed to equity and good governance.
“To my fellow aspirants, I salute your courage and sportsmanship. Our shared goal is the progress of Ekiti State. The real work begins now, and together we shall achieve the victory our people desire,” he said.
Also speaking, one of the aspirants, Dr. Funso Ayeni, acknowledged that while the process was not perfect, the internal mechanisms of the party remain in place to address concerns and strengthen unity ahead of the general election.
Ekiti State PDP Chairman, Rt. Hon. Olatunji Odeyemi, attributed the success of the primary to divine guidance, noting that the party is now focused on reclaiming the state in 2026.
