Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has openly declared support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s second-term bids ahead of the 2027 general elections—despite being a prominent member of the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Speaking at a high-level political gathering in Ado-Ekiti on Monday, Fayose praised both leaders for what he described as “commendable performance,” saying his endorsement was driven by results and not partisan loyalty.
“I hereby endorse publicly, without reservation, President Bola Tinubu for a second term. I also endorse our governor, Biodun Oyebanji, and his deputy for a second term,” Fayose stated.
The event was attended by former governors, federal lawmakers, and political stakeholders across Ekiti State. Fayose described the occasion as a “unique gathering” that reflected a rare moment of political unity in the state. “This unity is a model for all states in Nigeria,” he added.
Although reaffirming that he has no intention of joining the All Progressives Congress (APC), Fayose emphasized that his support for Tinubu and Oyebanji was based on their visible achievements and leadership style.
“I am not a member of their party and I will never be, but I stand here to say I have seen the good work. I commend Governor Oyebanji’s humility and leadership. He deserves another term,” Fayose said.
Fayose, who served as governor from 2003 to 2007 and again from 2014 to 2018, also challenged Governor Oyebanji to match his own record of electoral victory across the entire state.
“Who will, for the first time again, become the record holder to win in all the 16 local governments and all the 177 wards of Ekiti? That is taken for granted. But when we get to the field, we will contest,” he declared.
The former governor also acknowledged former Governor Segun Oni, who was present at the event, for promoting inclusive politics and bridging divides in the state.
In a light-hearted moment, Fayose congratulated recent defectors from opposition parties into the APC, but clarified that he had no plans to follow suit.
“I congratulate all the decampees; they should continue decamping. It’s a good thing as long as this governor returns for a second term. It doesn’t matter how many decampees come over—except me. I’m coming nowhere,” he said with a smile.
Fayose’s endorsement, especially of President Tinubu, is likely to stir debate within the PDP and across Nigeria’s political landscape as realignments begin to emerge in anticipation of the 2027 elections.
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