Dr. Wole Oluyede’s Triumphant Return to Ekiti Signals Major Blow to APC

 

 Dr. Wole Oluyede made a grand and highly symbolic return to his hometown of Ikere Ekiti today, marking what many see as a decisive turning point in Ekiti State politics and a significant setback for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The occasion drew parallels to the memorable return of former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose in 2014, when Fayose arrived at Amoye Grammar School in a private helicopter and addressed thousands before receiving his certificate of return, heralding his victory and return to the government house. Today, Oluyede followed a similarly dramatic path, symbolizing the beginning of what his supporters hope will be a strong comeback for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

Dr. Oluyede is no stranger to Ekiti’s political landscape. He has been active long before the first term of then-Governor John Kayode Fayemi, contested the APC gubernatorial primary in 2018, and was the African Democratic Congress (ADC) gubernatorial candidate in 2022. This extensive political journey has seen him visit all sixteen local government areas in Ekiti, positioning him as a well-known figure with grassroots support.

This time, Oluyede emerged as the PDP gubernatorial candidate following a decisive victory in the party’s primaries held on November 8, 2025. His emergence was widely regarded as a clean and transparent contest, providing the PDP with a united front ahead of the June 20, 2026 gubernatorial election.

The formal presentation of the certificate of return to Oluyede took place on December 10 at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Hall in Abuja. The event saw a full house including the PDP National Working Committee led by Taminu Turaki SAN, party officials from Ekiti State, former governors, legislators, and prominent industry captains.

The Ekiti PDP contingent, traveling in eight buses from Abuja, turned the hall into a carnival-like celebration, with Dr. Oluyede and his wife, Mrs. Kemi Oluyede, expressing their gratitude amid cheers and dances. The display of home-state support sent a clear message to the national party leadership about Oluyede’s strong backing and readiness to deliver victory.

Later in the day, Oluyede’s plane touched down at Akure Airport, where an enthusiastic crowd awaited his arrival. From there, he proceeded in a vibrant motorcade to Ikere Ekiti, where he briefly stopped opposite Amoye Grammar School, recalling the historic welcome given to Ayo Fayose.

Addressing the gathered crowd, Oluyede expressed heartfelt appreciation for their support. “I am not surprised at seeing this crowd here. My humble background and the legacy of my family in Ikere Ekiti give me great joy. I urge you to transform this support into votes this coming June 20. By God’s grace, I will serve Ekiti State as Governor with humility and dedication.”

The energized motorcade then made its way to Ado Ekiti, passing through several key towns as residents lined roadsides in Ankara and PDP-branded attire, waving and cheering.

At the PDP Secretariat in Ajilosun, party chairman Rt. Hon. Tunji Odeyemi and secretary Kole Abiodun welcomed Oluyede warmly, affirming the party’s confidence in his candidacy. Several notable figures spoke passionately, including former Ado Ekiti Local Government chairman Deji Ogunsakin, who declared, “PDP is not dead – this is the end of APC in Ekiti.” Former Senator Duro Faseyi and other PDP stalwarts also rallied supporters to intensify grassroots mobilization.

Community leaders from diverse groups including Hausa and Ibiira segments pledged their unwavering support, while youth and student representatives voiced strong commitment to the campaign.

Mrs. Kemi Oluyede, the candidate’s wife, particularly appealed to women for continued solidarity and active participation in the electoral process.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Oluyede urged citizens to register for the permanent voter card, emphasizing the opportunities a PDP government would offer. “PDP is a progressive party with a clear vision to improve the lives of Ekiti people,” he said.

The candidate’s grand reception and confident declaration have already set political circles abuzz. Observers note that the hardships Ekiti people have faced under the current APC-led administration have intensified desires for change, making Oluyede’s campaign a rallying point for those seeking a new direction.

With the June 20, 2026 gubernatorial election looming, Oluyede’s triumphant entrance and growing support represent a formidable challenge to the APC. The political atmosphere recalls the dramatic 2014 elections when voters decisively opted for change.

The consensus among many in Ekiti now appears clear: regardless of who the APC fields – be it incumbent Governor Biodun Oyebanji or another candidate – Dr. Wole Oluyede’s momentum and the popular yearning for good governance position PDP as the likely victor.

As the campaign intensifies, the narrative unfolding signals a significant political shift, with Ekiti voters preparing to write a new chapter in their state’s governance come October 2026. Today marks a firm “red card” against the APC, foreshadowing an end to its current tenure.