In a significant development ahead of the 2026 Ekiti State governorship election, former Nigerian Ambassador to Canada and ex-Secretary to the Ekiti State Government, Dare Bejide, has secured the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ticket. The primary election, held amid high expectations and intense competition, saw Be88jide triumph over four other aspirants, solidifying his position as the party's flagbearer. This outcome marks a pivotal moment for the ADC in Ekiti, a state known for its vibrant political landscape and history of closely contested polls.
The primary results were officially declared by Senator Patricia Akwashiki, Chairperson of the ADC Primary Election Committee, during a press briefing. The event was well-attended by officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), representatives from various security agencies, and members of the media. According to the announced figures, Bejide garnered an impressive 15,466 votes, far surpassing his closest rivals. Former Deputy Governor Prof. Olusola Eleka came in second with 12,003 votes, followed by Barr. Femi Adegbite with 9,141 votes. Otunba Emmanuel Fayose received 2,865 votes, while Apostle Ayodele Adesua trailed with just 135 votes.
The vote distribution highlights Bejide's strong grassroots support and strategic campaigning. His background as a seasoned diplomat and administrator appears to have resonated with party delegates, who turned out in large numbers to participate in the process. Bejide's experience in international relations, particularly his tenure as Ambassador to Canada, brings a unique perspective to the race, potentially appealing to voters seeking global-minded leadership for local challenges. Similarly, his role as Secretary to the Ekiti State Government under previous administrations has equipped him with insider knowledge of state governance, which he is expected to leverage in his campaign.
Senator Akwashiki's announcement was not without acknowledgments of minor hiccups. She revealed that results from three Local Government Areas—Emure, Ilejemeje, and Oye—were stepped down due to reported irregularities. These areas, known for their rural demographics and sometimes logistical challenges in electoral processes, had their collation processes halted to ensure integrity. Despite this, Akwashiki emphasized that the primary was "very peaceful" overall. She praised the massive turnout of party members, describing it as a testament to the ADC's growing influence in Ekiti politics. The high participation rate underscores the enthusiasm within the party and could signal broader voter engagement in the general election.
However, the process was not entirely smooth. Senator Akwashiki openly condemned disruptions that occurred at the collation centre. While details of these incidents were not elaborated upon in the briefing, such disturbances are not uncommon in Nigerian primaries, where high stakes often lead to tensions among supporters. She urged any aggrieved aspirants to direct their complaints through the proper channels, specifically the party's Appeal Committee. This call for internal resolution aims to maintain unity within the ADC and prevent fragmentation that could weaken the party's chances in 2026.
In her remarks, Akwashiki extended gratitude to key stakeholders. She thanked INEC for its oversight and impartial monitoring, which helped lend credibility to the exercise. Security agencies were commended for maintaining order and ensuring a safe environment for delegates and officials. The media's role in covering the event transparently was also highlighted, as their presence facilitated public awareness and accountability.
The ADC, through its leadership, has pledged to address any lingering disputes promptly. The party emphasized its commitment to moving forward united, with a focus on an issue-based campaign. Central to this strategy will be themes of good governance and economic stability—pressing concerns for Ekiti residents grappling with issues like infrastructure deficits, agricultural development, and youth employment. Ekiti, often dubbed the "Fountain of Knowledge" due to its emphasis on education, has seen previous administrations prioritize human capital development, but economic challenges persist amid national fluctuations in oil revenues and inflation.
Bejide's emergence comes at a time when opposition parties like the ADC are seeking to challenge the dominance of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti. The state has alternated between these two major parties in recent governorship cycles, with the current incumbent from the APC. The ADC's primary success could inject fresh dynamism into the political discourse, offering voters an alternative platform that promises pragmatic solutions over partisan rhetoric.
Looking ahead, the resolution of internal grievances will be crucial. The Appeal Committee is expected to review any petitions fairly, ensuring that all voices within the party are heard. This internal mechanism is a standard feature in Nigerian political parties, designed to foster reconciliation and prevent defections that have plagued past elections.
The broader implications for Ekiti's 2026 race are noteworthy. With Bejide at the helm, the ADC may appeal to disillusioned voters from both the APC and PDP camps. His rivals in the primary, including Prof. Eleka—a former PDP stalwart—and others with established networks, represent a diverse field that tested the party's cohesion. Eleka's strong showing, for instance, reflects lingering influence from his time as deputy governor, while Adegbite's legal background could have drawn support from professional circles.
As the campaign season approaches, the ADC's pledge for an issue-based approach is commendable. Good governance entails transparent administration, anti-corruption measures, and efficient service delivery. Economic stability, on the other hand, involves boosting agriculture—Ekiti's cocoa and yam production are vital—and attracting investments in education and tourism. Bejide's diplomatic experience might aid in forging partnerships beyond the state, potentially with international donors focused on sustainable development.
INEC's involvement in the primary bodes well for electoral standards. The commission's presence ensures compliance with guidelines, setting a precedent for the general election. Security agencies' role in preventing violence is equally vital, given Nigeria's history of election-related clashes.
Media coverage will play a key part in shaping public perception. Objective reporting on the primary's outcomes and any appeals will help build trust in the process.
In conclusion, Dare Bejide's victory in the ADC primary positions him as a formidable contender for the Ekiti governorship. With 15,466 votes against his opponents' tallies, his win was decisive yet respectful of the democratic contest. The party's handling of irregularities and disruptions demonstrates maturity, while its forward-looking agenda on governance and economy aligns with voter priorities. As disputes are resolved and campaigns ramp up, Ekiti residents can anticipate a robust debate on the state's future. The ADC's unity will be tested, but if maintained, it could herald a new chapter in the state's politics. This primary not only crowns a candidate but reinforces the importance of peaceful, inclusive party processes in Nigeria's democracy.
