In a significant political development ahead of the June 20, 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State, the deputy governorship candidate of the Accord Party, Akoni Bayo Omoyeni, has officially withdrawn from the race and defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Omoyeni announced his decision on Saturday during a political gathering in Ikere Ekiti, where he also declared his full support for the PDP governorship candidate, Dr Wole Oluyede.
Explaining his decision, Omoyeni said the move was driven by the need to support a candidate he believes possesses the capacity to deliver quality leadership and advance the interests of the people of Ekiti State.
He described Oluyede as both a political ally and an elder brother, whose ambition, he said, deserves the backing of all well-meaning citizens of the state.
“You are my big brother. This is an Ikere agenda. I am not only withdrawing from the race, but I am also joining you in the PDP to ensure victory in the election,” Omoyeni declared.
The former Accord Party running mate further pledged to mobilise his supporters for the PDP, assuring the party that no fewer than 2,000 members of the Accord Party would defect alongside him.
“My people are ready to join you in this party. I promise you they will not be less than 2,000 members. I congratulate you in advance, sir,” he added.
In his response, the PDP governorship candidate, Dr Oluyede, welcomed the defection, describing it as a strong endorsement of his vision and political agenda for Ekiti State.
He commended Omoyeni and his supporters for their courage and patriotism, urging them to translate their support into votes at the polls.
“PDP is a great party where everyone has the opportunity to realise his political aspirations. I want to assure you and your supporters that we will not disappoint you.
“As from today, your interest is my interest. You are now members of our campaign team, and together we will work for the success of our party in the forthcoming election,” Oluyede said.
The development is expected to reshape political alignments in the state as parties intensify preparations for the highly anticipated governorship poll.
