News, Politics

Ekiti 2026: ADC Surges as Bejide Attracts Defectors, Unveils Development Agenda

Published by Samuel Ayomide on March 19th, 2026.

The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Ekiti State, Dare Bejide, has intensified his campaign drive ahead of the 2026 election, welcoming a fresh wave of defectors while outlining plans to boost infrastructure and rural development across the state.

Bejide received over 200 new members at Ikole Ekiti on Thursday, many of whom defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The development, according to The Punch, signals growing political realignments as parties position themselves ahead of the June 20 governorship poll scheduled by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Addressing supporters, the ADC flagbearer lamented the poor condition of key roads in the state, particularly the Ikole axis, describing infrastructure as central to economic growth. He pledged that his administration would prioritise road rehabilitation to ease movement and improve safety.

“This road and others in bad condition across the state will receive urgent attention. Good infrastructure is critical for the movement of people, goods, and agricultural produce, and it directly impacts economic development,” Bejide said.

He also outlined broader policy priorities, including improved electricity supply, accessible healthcare, quality education, and food security. According to The Guardian Nigeria, Bejide assured that the ADC’s manifesto is designed to address the needs of all residents, regardless of political or religious affiliations.

The ADC deputy governorship candidate, Chief Ayodeji Babatola, emphasised the party’s commitment to inclusive governance, noting that citizens would be actively involved in decision-making processes.

Similarly, the state chairman of the party, Ilesanmi Omolayo, assured the defectors of equal treatment and full integration into the party structure, stressing that the ADC remains open to all who share its vision for Ekiti’s development.

Speaking at the event, party chieftain and former commissioner, Segun Akinwunmi, identified the lack of local government autonomy as a major setback to grassroots development. He urged voters to support the ADC candidate, promising accelerated progress under his leadership.

One of the defectors, Bamidele Ologuntoye, said the decision to join the ADC was driven by the party’s internal organisation and democratic structure. “We believe in the vision of this party and will work to ensure its victory in the coming election,” he stated, as reported by Daily Times Nigeria.

With no fewer than 13 political parties in the race, analysts say the influx of new members into the ADC could reshape the dynamics of the Ekiti governorship contest, as campaigns gather momentum ahead of the polls.