Ekiti 2026: PDP Accuses Oyebanji of Using Security Agencies to Intimidate Opposition

The Peoples Democratic Party in Ekiti State has accused Governor Biodun Oyebanji of using security agencies and state machinery to intimidate opposition members ahead of the June 20 governorship election.

The allegation was made on Sunday by the party’s deputy governorship candidate, Ayodeji Ogunsakin, during a press conference in Ado Ekiti.

Ogunsakin alleged that several members of the PDP had been arrested, detained, and harassed because of their political affiliations. He claimed that security operatives had targeted opposition supporters, particularly in Ikere Ekiti and other parts of the state, creating an atmosphere of fear ahead of the election.

According to him, some opposition members have allegedly been subjected to overnight raids, while others were detained for activities such as displaying campaign materials and openly supporting PDP candidates.

He expressed concern that democratic principles could be undermined if citizens become afraid to identify with political parties or express their political views.

Ogunsakin called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and relevant security authorities to investigate the allegations and ensure that democratic rights are protected throughout the election period.

“We call on all relevant authorities to guarantee a level playing field for all political parties and ensure that security agencies remain professional and non-partisan in the discharge of their duties as we approach the election,” he said.

The PDP candidate further argued that political competition should be based on performance and public support rather than intimidation or suppression of dissenting voices. He warned that continued harassment of opposition members could increase political tension as preparations for the governorship election intensify.

However, the Ekiti State Government has dismissed the allegations. The Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, described the claims as false, laughable, and an attempt by the opposition to attract public attention.

Olatunbosun maintained that Governor Oyebanji had no involvement in the arrest of any individual and advised the PDP to direct its complaints to security agencies.

He stated that security agencies were carrying out their lawful responsibilities and insisted that the governor remains committed to peace, lawful governance, and the protection of democratic values in the state.