The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has declared Ambassador Dare Bejide, a former Ambassador to Canada and one-time Secretary to the Ekiti State Government, as its governorship candidate for the June 20, 2026 election in Ekiti State.
Bejide secured a total of 15,466 votes to defeat four other aspirants in the direct primary election conducted across the 16 local government areas of the state on Thursday. His closest rival, former Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Professor Kolapo Olusola-Eleka, polled 12,003 votes.
Announcing the results on Friday morning before officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and the media, the Chairman of the ADC Governorship Primary Election Committee, Senator Patricia Naomi Akwashiki, said results from Ilejemeje and Oye Local Government Areas were stepped down, while that of Emure Local Government was cancelled due to irregularities.
Senator Akwashiki described the primary election as peaceful and commended party members for their impressive turnout and orderly conduct across the state. She, however, condemned the actions of a few party members who attempted to disrupt the collation process, urging them to exercise restraint.
She expressed appreciation to all aspirants for their sportsmanship and encouraged any dissatisfied members to channel their grievances to the party’s Appeal Committee for review.
Akwashiki also lauded INEC officials, security agencies, and the media for their cooperation during the exercise.
In its official response, the ADC leadership commended the State Primary Election Committee, INEC, the media, and security agencies for their roles in ensuring a credible process, pledging to work with all stakeholders to amicably resolve any post-primary disputes that may arise.
