Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has publicly declared his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, endorsing both leaders for a second term in office.
Speaking at a political gathering over the weekend in Ado-Ekiti, Fayose, a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), said his endorsement is rooted in what he described as “visible achievements” by both the President and the Ekiti Governor since assuming office.
“Governor Oyebanji is performing. The people are feeling the impact of his leadership, and I’m not blind to good governance regardless of party lines,” Fayose remarked. “If we are being honest, Tinubu is laying a foundation that will pay off in the long run. He deserves another term to consolidate.”
The former governor’s remarks have stirred reactions across political circles, especially within the PDP, where his recent stance has been viewed as leaning closer to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Fayose, who has long been known for his fiery criticism of federal administrations, appeared to have taken a more conciliatory tone in recent months, praising aspects of President Tinubu’s economic and political policies while calling for patience amid ongoing reforms.
Governor Oyebanji, who succeeded Kayode Fayemi in 2022, has largely received bipartisan commendation for his infrastructure, security, and youth empowerment initiatives. His administration has maintained relative peace in Ekiti’s political climate—a shift from the state’s formerly turbulent landscape.
Political Implications
Observers say Fayose’s support could signal a growing trend of pragmatic politics in the South-West, where politicians across party lines are aligning based on performance rather than rigid party loyalty. While it remains unclear whether Fayose’s comments will translate into formal defection or coalition-building ahead of 2026 and 2027 elections, analysts say the endorsements carry symbolic weight.
Background:
Ayodele Fayose served as Ekiti Governor between 2003–2007 and again from 2014–2018. Known for his populist appeal and controversial outspokenness, he has remained a central figure in Ekiti and national politics even after leaving office.