The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Ambassador Dare Bejide, suffered a setback on Saturday as he lost his polling unit to the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and incumbent governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, in the ongoing Ekiti State governorship election.
Early results from Polling Unit 4, Ward 2, in Ilawe-Ekiti, Ekiti Southwest Local Government Area, showed a commanding lead for the APC, underscoring Governor Oyebanji’s dominance in the area.
According to figures obtained from the polling unit, the APC secured 140 votes, while the ADC garnered 37 votes. The African Action Congress (AAC) polled two votes, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), and Action Democratic Party (ADP) recorded one vote each.
Security Quells Tension
The voting process at the unit was briefly overshadowed by reports of violence and attempted vote-buying. However, security personnel swiftly intervened to prevent any escalation.
The Commissioner of Police overseeing election security, Abayomi Shogunle, who visited the polling unit, dismissed concerns over the incidents, insisting that the electoral process was progressing smoothly.
He described the reported disturbances as minor skirmishes often associated with highly competitive elections and maintained that there was no significant disruption to voting.
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Results from other polling units in Ilawe-Ekiti also indicated strong support for the APC.
At Polling Unit 7, Ward 1, in Ilupe Community, the APC polled 70 votes, while the ADC secured 15 votes.
Similarly, at Polling Unit 12, Ward 1, Owaosun/Tedio, the APC recorded 57 votes against the ADC’s 10 votes. The PDP received four votes, while the ADP scored one vote.
At Polling Unit 1, Ward 1, located within St. Angela’s Catholic School, the APC maintained its lead with 88 votes. The PDP followed with 14 votes, while the ADC recorded four votes. Nine ballots were declared void.
With early results pointing to a strong performance by Governor Oyebanji and the APC, party supporters have already begun celebrations in parts of Ilawe-Ekiti.
Observers reported that APC members were gathering at bars and relaxation centres across the town, expressing confidence that the early voting pattern would translate into a wider victory as collation of results continues across the state.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.