Former Nigeria’s Ambassador to Canada and former Secretary to the Ekiti State Government, Ambassador Dare Bejide, has emerged governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2026 Ekiti governorship election.
Bejide clinched the party’s ticket after securing 15,466 votes to defeat four other aspirants in a keenly contested primary election held across the 16 local government areas of the state on Thursday.
Former Deputy Governor, Prof. Olusola Eleka, came second with 12,003 votes while Femi Adegbite polled 9,141 votes. Emmanuel Fayose and Ayodele Adesua scored 2,865 and 135 votes respectively.
Announcing the result on Friday, the Chairman of the ADC Governorship Primary Election Committee, Senator Patricia Akwashiki, described the exercise as peaceful, transparent, and largely credible.
Akwashiki, however, disclosed that results from Emure, Ilejemeje, and Oye local government areas were cancelled due to identified irregularities during the voting process.
“We commend the delegates and members for their peaceful conduct throughout the exercise.“However, the committee decided to suspend results from Emure, Ilejemeje, and Oye LGAs pending further review.”
She condemned outrightly the actions of some party members who attempted to disrupt the collation process, urging them to embrace peace and await the outcome of the party’s internal dispute resolution mechanism.
“We appeal for restraint. Any aggrieved aspirant or delegate should channel their complaints to the Appeal Committee set up for that purpose,” Akwashiki advised.
The senator commended INEC officials, security agencies, and the media for their presence, support and cooperation throughout the exercise, noting that their involvement enhanced the credibility of the process.
“INEC officials monitored the exercise from start to finish, and security agencies ensured orderliness at every polling venue. We appreciate their professionalism,” she added.
