The race for three senatorial seats and six House of Representatives seats in Ekiti State is heating up ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) witnessing a surge of aspirants vying for the plum legislative tickets.
Aspirants across the state have begun an intense scramble for the party’s tickets, engaging in intense lobbying, alliance-building, grassroots mobilisation, and positioning themselves for the APC flags.
The focus on the party’s shadow poll for the National Assembly contests appears to have significantly overshadowed the political activities surrounding the June 20, 2026, governorship election in the state. Rather than dominating political space, the governorship poll is, in many quarters, receiving comparatively muted attention, as party stakeholders, power brokers, and aspirants shift their focus to the battle for federal legislative tickets.
Across the state, political meetings that would ordinarily revolve around the race for the governorship race are now largely centred on permutations for the House of Representatives and Senatorial seats. Aspirants and supporters are channeling their resources in courting party leaders toward securing endorsements for their National Assembly ambitions.
The intensed political activities followed the release of a revised timetable for the 2027 general elections by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on February 26. The timetable has injected fresh urgency into parties’ preparations, as aspirants across the country are recalibrating their strategies to meet the new deadlines.
Under the revised timetable released on February 26, political parties have been given May 30 as the deadline to conduct and conclude their shadow polls. This timeline has compressed the window for aspirants to secure endorsements and mobilise grassroots support, thereby accelerating political activities across the country.
In Ekiti, the timetable has heightened the scramble for the legislative tickets, which is intense within the APC, which remains the dominant political force in the state.
The struggle for the tickets is seen as a decisive battle that could determine the eventual winners in the general elections, given the APC’s entrenched structures and influence.
Across the three senatorial districts and nine federal constituencies, aspirants are leveraging political networks, financial resources, and longstanding relationships within the party to gain an edge. Behind the scenes consultations, endorsements, and informal alliances are shaping the trajectory of the legislative contests, as the party nominate its standard bearer for the National Assembly election.
Amid the jostling, attention is also turning to the mode of primaries to be adopted by the party. The Electoral Act provides for the consensus and direct primary options, and indications within the Ekiti APC suggest that consensus may likely be favoured. This is largely informed by the party’s recent experience in nominating its candidates for local government and the State House of Assembly elections, where consensus arrangements were successfully deployed.
Keen watchers of political dynamics in the APC opened that beyond the usual contest for power, issues such as zoning, performance of incumbents, and loyalty to the party leadership are beginning to dominate discussion among party members.
At the same time, the contest is spilling into the media space, with aspirants and their supporters resorting to sponsored write-ups on social media platforms to promote their candidacies and discredit rivals.
The struggle for the legislative seats is more pronounced in Ekiti North Senatorial District, which comprises Ikole, Oye, Moba, Ilejemeje, and Ido-Osi local government areas. Structurally divided into two federal constituencies, the district presents a delicate balance of power, history, and agitation for equity.
While Ekiti North federal constituency II (Moba, Ido-Osi, Ilejemeje) has dominated representation over the years, Ekiti North federal Constituency I (Ikole and Oye) continues to push for greater inclusion, especially with Ikole yet to produce a senator.
This imbalance has become a major talking point, shaping the arguments of aspirants and stakeholders alike. Moba local government has produced senators twice, Ido-Osi three times, including the incumbent, while Ilejemeje has had a single shot. Oye has produced one senator, leaving Ikole as the only local government yet to occupy the seat, a factor now driving strong agitation for power shift.
The race for the Ekiti North senatorial ticket is already attracting a mix of political heavyweights, incumbents, and emerging contenders, turning the contest into one of the most closely watched within APC in Ekiti State.
Across the district, consultations have intensified, alignments are being forged, and subtle campaigns are underway as aspirants position themselves for what is expected to be a fiercely competitive primary.
At the centre of these permutations is former governor Kayode Fayemi, whose name continues to dominate political discussions despite the absence of a formal declaration. Speculation remains rife that he may contest, a development that has further heightened interest in the race and kept political actors on edge.
The ex-governor’s influence within the APC structure in Ekiti is widely acknowledged. Having built a virile political network over the years, many of the party’s current leaders and executives are believed to have emerged under his leadership.
This, combined with his national profile, intellectual depth and access to financial resources, places him in a strategic position should he decide to enter the race. Beyond structure and influence, Fayemi is also seen by his supporters as a politician with broad appeal and governance experience, having served as governor and minister.
His ability to navigate both state and national politics is considered a major asset, particularly in a senatorial contest where visibility and connections at the federal level are critical.
However, his potential ambition is not without complications. His perceived distance from the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu has become a recurring theme in political discussions within the party. Critics point to his past public comments and political posture as indicators of a strained relationship with the current leadership at the centre.
Adding to the obstacles are allegations linking him to opposition activities in the country. The alleged links, analysts said, could pose a serious challenge should he decide to contest.
The incumbent senator, Cyril Fasuyi, is seeking re-election, leveraging on the advantages of incumbency and access to established political structures. As a first-term lawmaker, he has continued to consolidate his base within the party, particularly through his alignment with the state leadership and his visible role in party activities.
Fasuyi is widely regarded as financially strong and politically strategic, with his supporters projecting him as the natural choice for continuity. His involvement in mobilising support for Governor Biodun Oyebanji and emergence as the Director General of the governor’s re-election has reinforced his standing within the party hierarchy.
While criticisms have emerged in some quarters over his performance and the visibility of constituency projects, his camp maintains that his performance in the Senate in the last three years has been impactful. Supporters argue that Fasuyi has delivered people-oriented and developmental projects across the Ekiti North senatorial district.
However, certain factors may pose challenges to his re-election bid. There is a growing agitation among stakeholders for the senatorial seat to shift to Ikole Local Government, a sentiment rooted in zoning considerations and equity within the district. This demand could weaken Fasuyi’s support base in some quarters, particularly among political actors who feel their area has been marginalised.
In addition, there are also indications of a strained relationship between Fasuyi and some influential party leaders within the district, including Fayemi. The issue, if not effectively managed, could affect his chances during the party shadow poll.
The perception of his performance has also remained the subject of debate among constituents. While his supporters highlight his achievements, critics argue that his impact has not been sufficiently felt at the grassroots level, a narrative that opposition within and outside the party may seek to amplify.
For many observers, Senator Fasuyi still combines experience, structures, and institutional backing. However, the interplay of zoning agitation, internal party relations, and public perception of performance will be critical factors that could shape the outcome of his re-election bid.
Former Senator Ayodele Arise is also seeking a return to the Senate, banking on his experience and perceived national connections. Having transitioned from the PDP to the APC, he is attempting to re-establish his footing within the ruling party.
Arise is believed to be financially capable and ready to invest heavily in the race. His supporters claim he has strong backing at the national level, although this remains largely speculative.
While he was active during his previous tenure, his current grassroots appeal appears limited compared to some of his rivals. This has raised questions about his ability to mobilise broad-based support.
From Ikole local government area, which has never produced a senator, several aspirants are stepping forward, hinging their campaigns on equity and fairness.
These include Chief Segun Ajibulu, Akin Oyebode, the current Commissioner for Finance, Otunba Owolabi, and Architect Dipo Bamisaye.
Ajibulu
Chief Ajibulu, a perennial contender for the seat, brings consistency and persistence to the race as a repeat aspirant. Having contested previously, he is not new to the political terrain, and his supporters believe his experience gives him an edge among aspirants from the area. His strongest advantage remains the equity argument, which could gain traction depending on the party’s zoning decision.
Owolabi
Otunba Owolabi is relatively new in Ekiti’s political space, entering the race with claims of strong financial capacity and ambition. His supporters project him as a fresh alternative, though his political antecedents remain largely unknown.
Bamisaye
Architect Dipo Bamisaye is leveraging his closeness to key political figures, including Governor Oyebanji and the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele. He is seen as a loyal APC member who has contributed to past political campaigns, particularly in mobilising support for the governor’s victory through the Ekiti State University Alumni Association.
Oyebode
Akin Oyebode, the current Commissioner for Finance, is a technocrat with strong financial and administrative credentials.
Having served under previous administrations, he brings governance experience into the race, positioning himself as a capable hand.
Political Observers noted that Ikole’s strongest bargaining chip remains its historical exclusion, a factor that could significantly influence party decisions if zoning sentiments prevail.
In the House of Representatives race for Ekiti North Constituency I (Ikole/Oye), the contest is equally intense, with the agitation for rotation gaining momentum after Ikole has held the seat for three consecutive terms, leaving Oye sidelined for over a decade.
The incumbent, Akin Rotimi, is seeking re-election, relying heavily on his national visibility as spokesperson of the House and his political alliances. However, concerns about grassroots connection and constituency impact have continued to trail his candidacy.
Other aspirants from Ikole, including Hon. Odunayo Ayeni, are also in the race, though their influence appears more localized. On the Oye local government side, multiple aspirants have emerged, reflecting a strong push to reclaim the seat.
Among them, Bimbo Daramola, popularly called ‘Congressman’, has re-emerged as a dominant figure in the legislative race. Widely regarded for his impactful stint in the green chamber between 2011 and 2015, Daramola’s legacy of constituency projects, empowerment programmes, and grassroots engagement continues to resonate strongly across the district.
Known for his accessibility, philanthropy, and deep connection with the people, the former federal lawmaker commands significant support, particularly among youths and party faithful. His ‘Abomire’ empowerment initiatives, donation of a state of the art hospital to the state, and sustained grassroots mobilisation effort have reinforced his image as a results-driven lawmaker.
However, political disagreements during the Fayemi’s second term administration led to his defection from the APC to the Social Democratic Party ahead of the 2022 governorship poll, where he vied for the House of Representatives seat. His return to the APC significantly boosted the party’s strength across the state, as he rejoined with a large following of loyal supporters drawn from various local government areas.
The influx of his political base is widely seen as having reinforced the party’s grassroots structure and broadened its strong support network ahead of crucial electoral contests.
Supporters of Daramola insist that he deserves the ticket, citing his experience, exposure, competence, and proven track record in public office. They argue that he is not only tested but has consistently delivered the dividends of good governance, positioning him as the most qualified aspirant in the race.
Many within the constituency maintain that his performance between 2011 and 2015 remains a benchmark that has yet to be surpassed. His tenure, they recall, recorded significant impacts across multiple sectors, including infrastructure development, healthcare delivery, educational support, human capital development, women’s empowerment, agriculture, and youth engagement.
Daramola’s name, according to political observers, has become synonymous with effective representation in Ekiti, earning him widespread recognition as a household figure across both Ikole and Oye local government areas. Since returning to the APC, he has intensified grassroots mobilisation, notably through his signature ‘Walk for BAO’ initiative, which has traversed all 16 council areas in support of Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s re-election bid.
There is also growing sentiment among constituents that transcends the local government divides, with many from both Ikole and Oye reportedly rooting for Daramola as the preferred candidate for the 2027 election. This groundswell of support, analysts said, reflected both nostalgia for his past performance and confidence in his ability to deliver again.
A major plank of the argument in his favour, according to supporters, is that his return to the green chamber would be as a ranking lawmaker. They noted that ranking members often enjoy strategic advantages within the National Assembly, including greater influence in legislative processes, increased chances of occupying principal positions, and enhanced capacity to attract federal projects and interventions to their constituencies.
For many party faithful and constituents, this factor further strengthens the case for his emergence as the consensus candidate, as they believe he possesses not only the experience and grassroots appeal but also the legislative leverage required to deliver tangible benefits and effective representation for the constituency.
Other contenders from Oye, including a former member of House of Assembly, Sunday Adunmo fondly called ‘Galaxy’, Arch. Mobolaji Adeyeye, Engr. Olaoluwa Dawodu and Prince Ayorinde Ejioye bring varying degrees of experience and resources, but none appear to command the same widespread recognition and grassroots appeal.
The race for the Ekiti North Federal Constituency II is also shaping up. The two leading aspirants gunning for the party’s ticket are the incumbent, Hon. Kolawole Akinlayo, and his predecessor, Ibrahim Olarewaju, both of whom hail from Moba Local Government Area and command varying degrees of influence across the constituency.
Ibrahim Olarewaju, a native of Otun Ekiti, served the constituency in the House of Representatives between 2019 and 2023. During his tenure, he established himself as an active legislator and voice of the people, whose tenure was marked by constituency engagement and project facilitation.
Despite what many supporters describe as a strong performance, he was denied the party’s return ticket in the build-up to the 2023 general election. During his time in the Green Chamber, he was credited with raising the standard of representation in the constituency.
Many stakeholders argue that his tenure left a lasting imprint that continues to resonate across all communities in the constituency. His legislative impacts cut across critical sectors such as women and youth empowerment, healthcare, agriculture, education and infrastructure.
Following his exit from the National Assembly in 2023, Olarewaju was appointed Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters (House of Representatives), a role that has kept him actively engaged in governance at the federal level.
Described by loyalists as a grassroots mobiliser, seasoned politician, and performer, Olarewaju’s profile as a legal practitioner and experienced legislator is seen as a major asset in the race. His ability to connect with the electorate and mobilise support across different segments of the constituency places him in a strong position.
On the other side of the divide is the incumbent, Kolawole Akinlayo, who currently represents the constituency in the House of Representatives under the APC. A native of Ikosun Ekiti, also in Moba Local Government Area, Akinlayo emerged as a first-time lawmaker following the 2023 elections, stepping into the seat previously occupied by Olarewaju.
Supporters of the incumbent maintain that he has performed creditably within the short period he has spent in office. They argue that legislative effectiveness cannot be measured solely by the number of visible projects, emphasising their contributions to lawmaking and constituency engagement behind the scenes.
However, a section of constituents holds a contrary view, insisting that the impact of his representation has not been sufficiently felt across the constituency in the last three years. This perception, according to observers, has contributed to growing discontent among some party stakeholders and grassroots voters.
With Olarewaju banking on his past achievements and sustained grassroots connection, and Akinlayo relying on incumbency and party structure, the Ekiti North Federal Constituency II seat is set for a keenly contested showdown that could test the strength and unity of the APC in the area.