APC Primary Shake-Up: Kayode Ojo Ruled Out of Ekiti Governorship Race

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Ekiti APC Contest Narrows as Party Screens Aspirants

The battle for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket in Ekiti State has entered a new phase following the exclusion of Kayode Ojo from the party’s forthcoming primary election.

According to Naija breaking political news received by us ,the development significantly reshapes the internal contest and leaves a smaller pool of aspirants competing for the opportunity to represent the ruling party in the 2026 governorship election.

Party Leadership Confirms Screening Outcome

The announcement was made in Abuja by Duro Meseko, confirming that Kayode Ojo did not scale through the party’s screening process.

With the screening exercise concluded, attention has shifted to those who successfully secured clearance to participate in the primary election expected later this month.

Among the candidates remaining in contention are incumbent governor Abiodun Oyebanji and fellow aspirant Omolayo Oluremi, both of whom will now continue their campaigns within the party ahead of the decisive vote.

Road to the 2026 Governorship Election

The significance of the primary process has increased following confirmation by INEC that the Ekiti State governorship election is scheduled for July 2026.

As political calculations intensify, securing the APC ticket is widely viewed as a critical milestone for anyone hoping to emerge as the state’s next governor.

The outcome of the primary is therefore expected to play a major role in shaping the broader electoral contest over the coming months.

How Kayode Ojo’s Bid Came to an End

The decision to disqualify Kayode Ojo reportedly followed recommendations submitted by a screening committee established by the party’s National Working Committee.

His removal from the race continues a trend of adjustments within the APC selection process, as party officials work to finalize the list of approved contenders before the primary election.

For many observers, the development marks a significant moment given Kayode Ojo’s long-standing involvement in politics within Ekiti State.

Political History and Internal Party Dynamics

Over the years, Kayode Ojo has remained an influential figure within the APC, although his political journey has not been without controversy.

Previous attempts to secure the governorship ticket, coupled with occasional disagreements with influential figures within the party structure, have contributed to a complex relationship between the businessman-politician and sections of the party leadership.

His latest setback is therefore likely to generate discussions among party supporters and political stakeholders across the state.

Unity Considerations May Have Influenced the Decision

Gossip News Now reports that beyond the formal screening exercise, concerns about party cohesion may have influenced the final outcome.

Sources familiar with internal party affairs suggest that maintaining stability ahead of a crucial election cycle has become a top priority for APC leaders. Preventing factional disputes and strengthening internal unity are reportedly viewed as essential to preserving the party’s electoral strength.

This strategy reflects a broader effort to ensure that internal competition does not evolve into divisions capable of weakening the APC’s position ahead of the governorship election.

APC Restructuring Extends Beyond Ekiti

While political attention remains focused on Ekiti State, the party has simultaneously embarked on organizational adjustments in other regions.

One notable development is the dissolution of the APC executive structure in Enugu State, a move that political observers believe could be connected to evolving political calculations and possible future alignments involving Peter Mba of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

These developments suggest that the party is actively repositioning itself ahead of future electoral contests across multiple states.

Commentary and Analysis

The exclusion of Kayode Ojo highlights the delicate balance political parties often face when attempting to reconcile competitive primaries with broader strategic interests.

Although screening exercises are officially intended to evaluate eligibility and compliance with party requirements, political considerations frequently influence decision-making behind the scenes. In this case, party unity appears to have emerged as a key factor.

For the APC, the challenge now lies in ensuring that supporters of the disqualified aspirant remain committed to the party’s objectives. Failure to manage post-primary tensions could create internal fractures that opponents may seek to exploit.

At the same time, the development provides an opportunity for the remaining contenders to consolidate support and present a united front ahead of the 2026 election cycle. How effectively the APC navigates this period could ultimately determine its chances of retaining influence in Ekiti State.

TAGS: All Progressives Congress (APC)