In a major political twist that could reshape the Ekiti State governorship race, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has thrown his weight behind the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Wole Oluyede, ahead of the June 20, 2026 election, while women from the Ikere area of the state have also pledged their support to the candidate.
This was disclosed by the Wole Oluyede Campaign Organisation in a statement by its Press Secretary, Idowu Oluwole Adelusi.
According to the statement on Monday, the endorsement followed a high-level strategic meeting in Abuja, where Wike, described as a formidable force in Nigerian politics, pledged his full backing to ensure Oluyede’s victory at the poll.
The campaign organisation said the outcome of the meeting has effectively galvanised the PDP, positioning the party as one big family and as a united and dominant force ahead of the election.
It added that the endorsement of Oluyede by Wike has triggered panic within the camp of the All Progressives Congress (APC), particularly around the candidacy of Governor Biodun Oyebanji.
Amid the political momentum, a wave of grassroots support also emerged in Ikere Ekiti, Oluyede’s hometown, where a multitude of women from all quarters in the community paid a solidarity visit to the PDP candidate’s residence on Easter Sunday.
The delegation was received by Kemi Oluyede, who was described by the group as their Iyalode.
The gathering turned into a show of strength, with the compound filled to capacity as supporters pledged loyalty to Oluyede’s candidacy.
Speaking on behalf of the group, the Onibedo of Ikere Ekiti, Engineer Adepoju Dada Dare, said their visit was to openly identify with the Oluyede family and demonstrate unwavering support for the PDP candidate.
Dare said: “We are here to show our support.
“Both men and women are present, and we are fully committed to ensuring victory at the polls.”
One of the women leaders, Dupe Alawe, also expressed enthusiasm, promising to mobilise extensively for Oluyede’s success in the election.
In her response, Kemi Oluyede appreciated the show of solidarity and urged supporters to convert their enthusiasm into votes on election day.
She assured them of continued engagement and support.
The visiting group highlighted her longstanding support for community members, pledging to reciprocate by rallying wider grassroots backing for the PDP candidate.
The event concluded in a festive atmosphere, with supporters entertained and presented with gifts in the spirit of Easter, further reinforcing what the campaign described as a growing wave of momentum for Oluyede across Ekiti State.
