Otunba Emmanuel Fayose, a frontline governorship aspirant under the banner of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2026 election in Ekiti State, has officially declared his intention to contest, vowing to leverage his private sector experience to bring prosperity and meaningful development to the state.
Speaking during his grassroots familiarisation tour across Ado-Ekiti and Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Areas, Emmanuel Fayose emphasised that his aspiration is driven by a desire to serve and uplift the people of Ekiti State. He maintained that his background as an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) expert positions him uniquely to drive innovation, attract investments, and tackle the state’s socio-economic challenges head-on.
He stressed that his campaign is not just about politics but about genuine development and the need to move Ekiti state forward. “My goal is to bring prosperity to our people through effective leadership, transparency, and accountability. I am not in this race for personal gain but to serve Ekiti State and make a difference,” he told enthusiastic party members.
Dismisses Endorsements for Oyebanji as Mere Jamborees
In a sharp critique of the wave of endorsements for the incumbent governor, Biodun Oyebanji, Emmanuel Fayose dismissed them as inconsequential to the real political calculations ahead of the 2026 governorship election. According to him, such endorsements are “mere jamborees” that do not reflect the true feelings of the electorate and will not necessarily translate into votes when Ekiti State people head to the polls on June 20, 2026.
He accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of engaging in a “deceptive charade” by parading paid endorsements as genuine public support. “These endorsements are being used as tools to deceive the people. But endorsements alone cannot win elections. The people of Ekiti State are wiser and will vote based on performance and credibility, not empty declarations,” he stated firmly.
Emmanuel Fayose questioned the performance of the Oyebanji-led administration, asking citizens to critically evaluate what has been achieved with the monthly federal allocations. “There is hardship in the land. Hunger is everywhere. Our people deserve better governance, not propaganda,” he added.
Calls for Party Unity to Dislodge APC from Power
Emmanuel Fayose used the opportunity of his tour to appeal for unity within the PDP, calling on party leaders, stakeholders, and supporters to close ranks ahead of the crucial election. He urged members to set aside differences and focus on the collective goal of returning the PDP to power in Ekiti State.
“Let us embrace unity and oneness. We must shun anything that will divide us because only as one indivisible house can we hope to defeat the APC,” he said passionately. Emmanuel Fayose reminded party faithful that disunity had cost the PDP dearly in previous elections and stressed that the forthcoming poll is a chance to correct past mistakes.
The aspirant also solicited prayers and unwavering support from PDP members, adding that he could not achieve his ambition without their backing. His message of inclusivity and cooperation resonated well with the audience, who cheered his determination and sincerity.
Distances Himself from Brother’s Political Position on Oyebanji
Reacting to concerns raised over his elder brother, former Governor Ayodele Fayose’s recent endorsement of Governor Oyebanji for a second term, Emmanuel Fayose made it clear that he should be judged independently of his sibling.
Using the metaphor of twins with different characters, he emphasised that while he shares family ties with the former governor, their political views, ideologies, and approaches differ significantly. “The two of us cannot act the same way or share the same mindset. I am my own person with my own vision for Ekiti. I should be judged based on who I am and what I stand for,” he declared.
Emmanuel Fayose’s stance underscored his determination to forge his own political identity and reassured party members who may have been confused or disillusioned by his brother’s alignment with the APC-led government.
PDP Leaders Applaud Emmanuel Fayose, Reaffirm Commitment to Victory
PDP leaders in Ado Local Government Area, led by Femi Odeyemi, and their counterparts in Irepodun/Ifelodun LGA, headed by Ademola Alade, commended Emmanuel Fayose for his boldness and commitment to uniting the party. They praised his decision to embark on a grassroots tour, describing it as a step in the right direction toward strengthening the party’s base.
Both leaders reaffirmed their readiness to work tirelessly to ensure the PDP’s success in the 2026 elections. “This is the time for all PDP members to come together and rescue our dear state from the grips of bad governance. We must rally around credible candidates like Otunba Emmanuel Fayose who have the vision and capacity to transform Ekiti,” Odeyemi said.
Ademola Alade echoed the sentiment, urging party members to prioritise unity and sacrifice for the greater good. The enthusiastic reception of Emmanuel Fayose’s message in both local government areas signals a possible resurgence of the PDP’s electoral fortunes as the race to the governorship intensifies.
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