The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the June 20, 2026 Ekiti State governorship election, Dr. Wole Oluyede, has explained why he withdrew his legal challenge against the outcome of the poll, saying the decision was guided by national interest, personal reflection and a desire to promote political stability.
Oluyede, who lost the election to Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC), said he deliberately chose statesmanship over prolonged litigation, insisting that his action should not be misconstrued as an admission that the election was flawless.
In a statement titled “Ekiti 2026: The Election That Should Keep 2027 Political Strategists Awake,” the former PDP flagbearer maintained that no financial inducement, political settlement or agreement influenced his decision to discontinue the case before the election tribunal.
According to him, the withdrawal reflects his conviction that the country’s broader democratic and economic interests should take precedence over personal political ambition.
Oluyede also declared his intention to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, describing the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda as one that deserves continued engagement and support despite political differences.
He noted that the Ekiti governorship election offered valuable lessons for political parties and strategists ahead of the 2027 general elections, particularly on voter participation, grassroots mobilisation and the evolving nature of political loyalty.
“The election was not merely about who won or lost. It exposed changing dynamics in voter participation, grassroots mobilisation, political loyalty and the danger of taking the electorate for granted,” he said.
While pledging to remain active in national politics, Oluyede urged political actors to focus on strengthening democratic institutions, deepening voter engagement and promoting issue-based campaigns as preparations begin for the next electoral cycle.
