The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State has expressed concern over the political climate ahead of the 2026 governorship election, urging stakeholders to take deliberate steps to safeguard peace, strengthen democratic institutions and protect citizens’ rights to participate freely in the electoral process.

 

Addressing a press conference in Ado-Ekiti, the party’s deputy governorship candidate, Ayodeji Ogunsakin, said recent developments in the state’s political environment had heightened anxiety among PDP members and supporters. He noted that reports of arrests, detentions and security operations involving party supporters in some communities had fueled apprehension within the opposition camp.

 

Ogunsakin reaffirmed the PDP’s commitment to peaceful political engagement, stressing that democracy can only thrive in an atmosphere where citizens are free to express their political views, associate with parties of their choice and participate in lawful political activities without fear, intimidation or undue restrictions.

 

He warned against actions capable of escalating tensions or eroding public confidence in the electoral process as political activities intensify ahead of the election. According to him, recent incidents involving PDP supporters have raised concerns about political tolerance and the need to preserve Ekiti’s democratic culture.

 

The PDP chieftain called on security agencies to remain professional, impartial and neutral, emphasizing that public trust in elections depends on the credibility and fairness of institutions responsible for maintaining law and order.

 

He also appealed to President Bola Tinubu and other national leaders to continue supporting efforts aimed at deepening democratic governance and creating an enabling environment for political participation across the country. Ogunsakin expressed confidence in the president’s democratic credentials, citing his long-standing support for political pluralism and tolerance.

 

Urging political parties and their supporters to embrace issue-based campaigns, he cautioned against actions capable of overheating the polity. He reiterated the PDP’s commitment to pursuing its political ambitions through constitutional and democratic means while encouraging its supporters to remain peaceful and law-abiding.

 

Ogunsakin described the 2026 governorship election as an opportunity for Ekiti residents to freely choose their leaders and further strengthen democratic values in the state. He expressed optimism that with the cooperation of all stakeholders, the election would be conducted in an atmosphere of peace, fairness and mutual respect.

 

He reaffirmed the PDP’s commitment to a credible electoral process and called on residents to remain vigilant in preserving Ekiti State’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s most politically conscious and peaceful states.