ADC Leaders Push for Deputy Governorship Slot from Ado-Ekiti Ahead of 2026 Poll

Stakeholders within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Ekiti State have formally demanded that the party’s deputy governorship ticket be zoned to Ado-Ekiti for the upcoming June 2026 gubernatorial election.

The call was made in a communiqué issued on Monday following a meeting of party leaders, primarily from the Ekiti Central Senatorial District, with backing from some figures in Ekiti North. The document was jointly signed by the ADC chapter chairmen of Ado, Irepodun/Ifelodun, Ekiti West, Ijero, Efon Alaaye, Moba, Ekiti East, and Ido/Osi local government areas.

In the statement, the leaders congratulated Ambassador Dare Bejide on his emergence as the party’s governorship candidate, praising his primary victory as “well-deserved.” They also commended the national leadership, chaired by former Senate President Senator David Mark, and the state executive led by Hon. Omotayo Ilesanmi for conducting a “credible and rancour-free” primary election.

The stakeholders highlighted that the ADC’s primary was unique as the only major party’s contest in the state not mired in post-election litigation, a fact they presented as evidence of the party’s internal unity and democratic credentials.

With the governorship candidate, Ambassador Bejide, originating from Ekiti South Senatorial District, the leaders argued that “equity, electoral strategy, and political balance” necessitate zoning the deputy position to Ekiti Central. They specifically championed Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, citing its electoral significance.

“Ado-Ekiti Local Government Area has the highest voting strength in Ekiti State, and historically, no serious governorship contender can succeed without substantial support from Ado,” the communiqué asserted.

Abdullahi Awoloku, ADC Chairman for Ado Local Government, emphasized that the appeal is rooted in political strategy, not sentiment. “Our demand is based on political reality and the need to maximize the party’s chances in the 2026 governorship election,” he stated.

The group has now urged the ADC’s national and state leadership to consider their request to foster party unity, inclusiveness, and boost prospects for victory.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has set January 19, 2026, as the deadline for the publication of the final list of candidates and their running mates for the election.