In a dramatic turn of events during the Ekiti State governorship election, incumbent Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) secured a commanding win at a polling unit located in the hometown of former Governor Ayodele Fayose. The polling unit, designated PU 001 at St. David’s Primary School/Maternity Area in Afao-Ekiti, Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area, delivered a decisive 448 votes for Oyebanji out of a total of 493 valid ballots cast.
The result deals a significant blow to the opposition, with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate, Dare Bejide, managing only 37 votes, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Wole Oluyede, received a mere four votes. The Accreditation figure stood at 538 out of 931 registered voters, according to the official INEC Form EC8A. Seven ballots were rejected during the process.
Observers note the symbolic importance of this outcome, given that Afao-Ekiti is the political base of Fayose, a prominent figure in the state’s political landscape. The victory underscores Oyebanji’s strong grassroots support even in territories traditionally considered opposition strongholds. Collation of results continues across the state as officials and party agents verify and sign off on the tallies.