ADO-EKITI — A faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State, under the banner of the Concerned APC Patriots (CAP), has kicked against the renomination of Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye as running mate to Governor Biodun Oyebanji for the 2026 governorship election.
In a statement issued on Monday in Ado-Ekiti and signed by the group’s convener, Joshua Ademola, the CAP described Afuye’s selection as “putting a square peg in a round hole,” alleging she lacks the capacity to effectively occupy the office of deputy governor.
The group claimed that Afuye has failed to deliver on key responsibilities expected of her, including representing the governor at crucial meetings in Abuja, which they say are often assigned to other officials or left unattended.
“In a state renowned for its educated population, it is embarrassing that someone whose educational qualifications are questionable is holding the position of deputy governor,” the statement read. “Her election in 2022 was a mistake that should not be repeated. She has been a liability to the administration, with no positive contributions in the last three years.”
The group stressed that their opposition was not against zoning the position to Ekiti South Senatorial District or even micro-zoning it to Ikere-Ekiti, but insisted that the party must field a “more educated and capable” candidate.
They warned that retaining Afuye on the ticket could have “devastating consequences” for the APC in the 2026 polls.
However, the APC in Ekiti State dismissed the criticism. The party’s Publicity Secretary, Segun Dipe, described the group’s position as a mere opinion that holds no weight, affirming Afuye’s competence and loyalty.
“Our deputy governor is competent, reliable, and loyal. The APC trusts her, and we could not have wished for a better partner for our performing governor,” Dipe stated. “Besides, the choice of a deputy governor is not solely the party’s decision; it is beyond us.”
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