Dr. Olugbenga Obafemi, a 2026 gubernatorial aspirant from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has harshly criticized the All Progressives Congress (APC) government under Governor Biodun Oyebanji, claiming that the ruling party has failed to improve the lives of Ekiti residents. Obafemi pointed to a sharp decline in the state’s educational standards, with Ekiti ranking 8th in WAEC performance across Nigeria, as evidence of the government’s shortcomings.
During his visit to his hometown in Ikole-Ekiti, Obafemi formally declared his candidacy for the 2026 election. He vowed to provide free education for all residents of Ekiti, from primary to university level, citing the state’s rich natural resources, such as cocoa, gold, and coconut, as sources of potential funding. Obafemi emphasized the importance of tapping into these resources to fund education and other developmental projects.
The aspirant also promised to revive the state’s agricultural sector and transform Ekiti into the nation’s food basket. He further addressed the growing insecurity in the state, proposing a strengthened security plan that would involve stationing the Amotekun security outfit in rural areas to secure the state’s borders and prevent attacks by kidnappers and insurgents.
Obafemi also spoke out about the lack of progress regarding the Ekiti airport, which he described as underutilized, noting that it currently only handles shuttle flights. He pledged to open the airport to commercial flights to boost the state’s economy and global visibility.
Acknowledging his fellow PDP aspirant, Emmanuel Fayose, Obafemi stated that while Fayose has every right to contest, he is confident of winning the party’s primary.
The Elekole of Ikole Ekiti, Oba Aderemi Fasiku, welcomed Obafemi’s visit, noting that no son of Ikole has ever become governor of the state and wished him success in his bid. Obafemi also received blessings from the Olotin of Ikole-Ekiti, Chief Sayo Okunola, and visited other local communities within the local government to gather support.
