Political Tensions Mount: APC Aspirant Accuses Governor Oyebanji of Threatening Party Officials

As the political landscape in Ekiti State begins to take shape for the 2026 gubernatorial election, a major crisis is brewing within the All Progressives Congress (APC). A yet-to-be-named aspirant has launched a scathing attack on the state governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, accusing him of employing threats to secure the support of party leaders for his second-term bid.

The accusation, which has not been independently verified, has been dismissed by the governor’s camp as a smear campaign. The aspirant’s claim, however, paints a picture of a party where loyalty is coerced rather than earned, raising serious questions about internal democracy. The aspirant reportedly stated that Governor Oyebanji’s public display of overwhelming support is a facade and that many party leaders are being forced to endorse him out of fear.

The controversy comes just weeks after Governor Oyebanji formally declared his intention to seek re-election. His declaration has been followed by a series of high-profile endorsements from various groups, including the Ekiti State University (EKSU) Alumni Association and other APC caucuses. The governor’s supporters, including Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, have consistently hailed Oyebanji for his performance, noting his “exemplary leadership” and “remarkable achievements.”

However, this public show of unity has been countered by the aspirant’s allegations. The aspirant believes that these public endorsements are merely a result of the governor’s alleged intimidation tactics and do not reflect the true feelings of party members on the ground. The aspirant has also urged the party’s national leadership to intervene and create a level playing field for all aspirants, warning that a failure to do so could lead to the party’s defeat in the 2026 polls.

In his response, Governor Oyebanji has vehemently denied the allegations, describing them as “lies and provocations” from “mischief makers.” The governor, who recently received his nomination forms from the EKSU Alumni Association, has used the opportunity to appeal for peace among party members. He urged them not to be drawn into a fight with opponents and to let his performance and achievements speak for themselves. “We need peace in this state,” he stated.

The brewing conflict is a throwback to the 2022 APC gubernatorial primaries, which were also fraught with accusations of candidate imposition and foul play. The ability of the APC leadership to manage this new wave of internal strife will be a major test. For the people of Ekiti, the political drama serves as a stark reminder that while the state’s progress is at stake, the fight for power is already underway.