Ekiti PDP Candidate Says Tinubu’s 2027 Re-election Not Guaranteed

The Peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate in the 2026 Ekiti State election, Oluwole Oluyede, says President Bola Tinubu cannot assume victory in the 2027 presidential election based on the All Progressives Congress’ success in the state’s governorship poll.

Oluyede said the outcome of the June 20 governorship election should not be seen as proof of the APC’s dominance, noting that the 2027 presidential election would attract a larger turnout and present a more competitive contest.

He stressed that every election must be fought afresh and every vote earned, urging political parties to remain actively engaged with voters at the grassroots.

The PDP candidate also denied claims that he accepted money from President Tinubu, Governor Biodun Oyebanji or the APC to withdraw his petition before the Election Petition Tribunal, saying the decision followed consultations with his family, political associates and legal advisers.

Oluyede attributed the PDP’s performance in the governorship election to internal divisions within the party but maintained that it remains a strong opposition force in Ekiti State.