Ekiti: PDP’s Oluyede Withdraws Petition against Gov Oyebanji’s Re-Election

The Ekiti Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has dismissed the petition filed by Dr Wole Oluyede, the People's Democratic Party candidate in the June 20, 2026 governorship election, against Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress. Oluyede formally withdrew the petition after it was struck down by the Tribunal at its first sitting in Ado-Ekiti.

The Tribunal's decision followed a motion of withdrawal filed by Oluyede before the panel of three judges. The Tribunal Chairman, Justice Kutigi, approved the withdrawal based on Oluyede's request, which was supported by his counsel and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Oluyede explained that his decision was motivated by the advice of "important people," notably President Bola Tinubu, who urged him to withdraw the petition and work towards a unified effort to help Tinubu win the upcoming presidential election.

He emphasized the importance of collaboration between Ekiti and Nigeria, stating that it should not be a partisan issue but rather a collective endeavor for the betterment of the region and the nation.