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From Priscilla Ediare, Ado-Ekiti
Ahead of the June 20 governorship election in Ekiti State, the state’s chapter of Yoruba socio-cultural group Afenifere has thrown its weight behind the candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Dare Bejide, to secure victory in the forthcoming poll.
While describing Bejide as a formidable candidate, the group noted that its decision was linked to his track record as Secretary to the State Government and Nigerian High Commissioner to Canada, as well as its belief that he has what it takes to govern the state and provide the change the people are yearning for.
The leadership of the group, led by its chairman, Pastor Dr Olayemi Olajuyinnu, and secretary, Hon Afolabi Idowu, made the declaration during the party’s stakeholders’ meeting in Ado-Ekiti, where they said that the “decision transcends mere political support. It is a cultural and ideological alignment.”
The chairman said: “Afenifere Ekiti, the guardian of progressive Yoruba ethos and governance values, has chosen to drum support not just for a candidate, but for a direction it believes Ekiti desperately needs.
“We are not merely endorsing a politician; we are championing a proven custodian of our ideals.
“From his roots as Secretary to the State Government to his distinguished service as our nation’s Ambassador to Canada, Dare Bejide carries the integrity, competence, and heart for service that Ekiti requires to break its cycle of stagnation.
“We are drumming this support to awaken our people to a leadership that will prioritise their welfare and ensure they enjoy the dividends of democracy.
“This move is widely interpreted as a strategic gambit to consolidate a formidable front against the incumbent establishment.
“With Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) seeking re-election, Afenifere’s backing frames Bejide as the tangible alternative for voters yearning for change.”
Speaking further, Olajuyinnu said: “Fresh, diplomatic perspective is required to tackle the state’s deep-seated challenges in employment, healthcare and education.
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“For his part, Bejide, buoyed by the endorsement, struck a note of humble determination.
“This is a profound call to duty, rooted in our shared heritage.
“It reaffirms our collective mission: to build an Ekiti that doesn’t just function, but flourishes—where tradition and innovation merge to create prosperity for every citizen.”
In his remarks, Chief Ayodeji Babatola, the ADC’s deputy governorship candidate, appreciated Afenifere for its steadfast support. He assured that an ADC administration would ensure good governance and that the benefits of democracy would reach every community, not just a select few.
“Political observers know the weight this carries is beyond mere ceremony.
“Afenifere’s influence, particularly among Yoruba elders, intellectuals and grassroots communities, can mobilise votes and shape narratives.
“The chapter has pledged an active campaign of mobilisation, promising town hall meetings, rallies and sustained advocacy to propel Bejide’s vision.
“Bejide’s international pedigree positions him uniquely to attract investment and forge partnerships for the state’s development.
“While the full machinery of Afenifere’s support is yet to be unveiled, the message is already resonating across Ekiti’s political landscape.
“The 2026 contest is more than a party battle. It is a referendum on Ekiti’s future trajectory, and a major cultural institution has just powerfully sounded its choice. The drumbeats for 2026 have begun, and they are calling for Dare Bejide.”
The state’s ADC deputy chairman, Hon Dare Adekolu, state secretary, Hon Segun Akinwumi, and other party executives were also at the meeting.
