The African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate in Ekiti State, Ambassador Oluwadare Patrick Bejide, has stated that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has lost its grip on the state’s politics. Bejide made this declaration at the ADC National Headquarters in Abuja, where he received his Certificate of Return. The ceremony was chaired by the party’s Deputy National Chairman, Babachir Lawal, who represented the ADC National Chairman, Senator David Mark.

Bejide expressed optimism about his chances in the 2026 election, citing the need for a comprehensive political reset to address Ekiti’s deteriorating infrastructure, declining civil service morale, and worsening public perception. He unveiled elements of his development blueprint, which prioritizes agriculture, infrastructure, and civil service welfare. Bejide argued that Ekiti’s strategic location makes it an ideal supplier of agricultural products to major cities like Lagos and Abuja, if its agricultural value chain is properly developed.

The governorship candidate reflected on his three-decade career in public service, which includes roles such as State Secretary of the NRC in the old Ondo State, pioneer secretary of the UNCP and PDP in Ekiti, and Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Canada. He also served as Secretary to the Ekiti State Government and chaired the Federal Medical Centre and the UNHCR Board. Bejide believes that these experiences have equipped him with the knowledge required to deliver meaningful reform.

Bejide chose to run under the ADC banner due to the party’s internal cohesion, discipline, and fairness. He noted that the party’s credible primary process produced him as the candidate, unlike other parties embroiled in internal wrangling and litigation. The ADC Deputy National Chairman, Babachir Lawal, expressed confidence in Bejide’s candidacy and urged Ekiti residents to support him for the progress and future of the state.

As the 2026 election approaches, Bejide has reaffirmed his readiness for a robust grassroots mobilization. He believes that the coming election will be a watershed moment in Ekiti’s political trajectory, and that the ADC is well-positioned to bring about the change that the state needs. With his development blueprint and extensive experience in public service, Bejide is poised to make a significant impact in the state’s politics. The outcome of the 2026 election will be closely watched, as it may signal a shift in the state’s political landscape.