By Joy Odor, Abuja
The 2026 governorship race in Ekiti State is gathering momentum as Hon. Abimbola Olajumoke Olawumi, the first female aspirant in the contest, has formally declared her intention to challenge incumbent Governor Biodun Oyebanji.
Olajumoke, an All Progressives Congress (APC) aspirant, told journalists in Abuja on Tuesday shortly after purchasing her Nomination and Expression of Interest Forms at APC National Secretariat, that her ambition was driven by the need to end what she described as “cabal rule” in Ekiti politics and to offer the people a “desired change.”
She accused successive administrations of mismanaging resources despite huge federal allocations, claiming that Governor Oyebanji’s government had received over N500 billion in three years without commensurate infrastructural development.
“In the last three years alone, Governor Oyebanji’s administration has received over N500 billion from the federal government. Yet, there is nothing on the ground in terms of roads, schools, hospitals, or any infrastructure that justifies such funds,” she said.
Olajumoke also faulted the handling of agricultural interventions, including the N50 billion released last year for food security by President Bola Tinubu.
According to her, if the funds had been properly invested, Ekiti should by now be “feeding the entire southwest.”
“I’m not indicting my party. I’m presenting myself to do a better job. The truth must be said, irrespective of whose ox is gored,” she stated.
Accusing the state government of “weaponizing poverty,” Olajumoke argued that a small political cabal had held power since 1999, with little impact on the lives of ordinary citizens.
“For 26 years, a particular cabal has controlled the state. It’s time to change that. Governance should be about people’s welfare, not enriching godfathers,” she declared.
Unveiling her agenda, Olajumoke pledged to rehabilitate roads, empower local governments, and ensure grassroots communities feel the impact of governance.
“Give me six months, and those abandoned roads will be fixed. The federal government has done a lot for Ekiti, but the effort of the president has been sabotaged locally,” she added.
Olajumoke, who has a history of activism and women’s empowerment, recalled how she stood against former Governor Ayodele Fayose over unpaid salaries and was arrested for her stance.
“I was arrested and even detained for standing against him. That shows I’ve always been a consistent voice. Nobody can intimidate me,” she said.
She expressed optimism that her candidacy would inspire more women to join politics, stressing that the backing of prominent female leaders, including the First Lady, could strengthen her campaign.
“This is the time for women. We can rise and bring the desired change,” she concluded.
