INEC Omits PDP’s Oluyede From Ekiti Governorship Candidates List

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the provisional list of governorship and deputy governorship candidates for the June 20, 2026 Ekiti State election, but Dr. Wole Oluyede, the candidate elected by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the party’s November primary, was excluded from the displayed list. The list, pasted at the INEC office in Ado-Ekiti, includes candidates and running mates from 12 other political parties, such as the All Progressives Congress (APC), Accord Party, African Democratic Congress, Labour Party and others vying for the governorship seat.

Oluyede, a medical expert who secured victory at the PDP primary with 279 votes, defeating his closest challenger, was expected to represent the party in the election. However, his name and that of his running mate were not among the candidates displayed by INEC, raising concerns among PDP supporters and political observers. Sources within INEC, speaking on condition of anonymity, attributed the omission to the ongoing leadership crisis within the PDP at the national level, which has led to multiple court cases and rival factions claiming authority, making the electoral body reluctant to confirm candidates until the disputes are resolved.

The absence of the PDP on the provisional list has stirred reactions in political circles, especially given the party’s status as one of the major opposition forces in the state. The electoral commission told media that it will update and finalise the candidate list in accordance with the Electoral Act after parties complete substitutions and resolve internal legal challenges. Analysts say this development could have significant implications for the conduct of the election and opposition participation if the situation is not clarified soon.

What do you think should happen next with the PDP’s exclusion from the candidate list, and how should internal party disputes be resolved before elections? Comment below and share your thoughts.

Share to: