Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria – Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) leader, boldly declared the party’s ambition to seize Ekiti State in 2026.
Speaking through Prof. Bayo Fakunle at the ADC’s unveiling, he warned Governor Biodun Oyebanji to prepare his handover notes.
The ADC’s confidence stems from surging grassroots support and widespread dissatisfaction with the current administration.
Abubakar expressed gratitude to Ekiti residents for supporting his presidential bid.
He vowed that the ADC would rescue the state from economic collapse.
“We will restore hope and prosperity,” Fakunle proclaimed, urging everyone to mobilize.
Consequently, his passionate speech ignited enthusiasm among supporters, signaling a fierce battle ahead.
Additionally, the event revealed a dramatic political realignment, which significantly shook the state’s power dynamics.
Shockingly, numerous defectors from the PDP, SDP, LP, and even APC joined the ADC.
Notably, this included allies of ex-Governors Fayose, Fayemi, and Oni.
Furthermore, Prof. Kolapo Olusola, a former Deputy Governor, accused current leaders of mismanagement.
He boldly declared, “We are reclaiming Ekiti for the people,” threatening Oyebanji’s stronghold as influential figures abandon his camp.
Significantly, key players like Prof. Kolapo Eleka, Dipo Anisulowo, Modupe Alade, and Gbenga Faseluka joined the ADC.
Their defection undermines Oyebanji’s re-election bid, despite previous endorsements from their former principals.
Moreover, analysts warn that the governor’s support base is crumbling.
Meanwhile, opposition unity strengthens daily, posing a significant challenge to the incumbent.
Furthermore, the ADC’s rapid rise complicates Ekiti’s political landscape, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown.
Oyebanji, who inherited power in 2022, remains silent as pressure mounts.
In contrast, the ADC’s aggressive recruitment and bold rhetoric suggest an unstoppable momentum shift ahead of 2026.
As tensions escalate, voters and strategists watch closely.
Therefore, will the ADC’s coalition topple the ruling party? Can Oyebanji counter this growing threat? With defections accelerating and public frustration mounting, Ekiti’s political future hangs precariously in the balance.
One thing is clear: the battle for the state’s soul has begun, and the ADC intends to win.