Ekiti PDP Recommends Fayose’s Expulsion Over Alleged Anti-Party Activities

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State has taken a decisive step towards expelling former Governor Ayodele Fayose, accusing him of engaging in activities detrimental to the party’s interests. The party’s Caretaker Committee Chairman, Dare Adeleke, made this known during a press briefing on Sunday in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital. According to Adeleke, Fayose’s public endorsement of Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and other alleged misconducts prompted the recommendation for his expulsion.

Adeleke stressed that the recommendation has already been submitted to the Tom Ikimi-led Disciplinary Panel, and the Olagunsoye Oyinlola Reconciliation Committee. Fayose’s recent statement in which he declared the PDP “dead” in Ekiti further solidified the call for his expulsion. “Fayose’s actions have embarrassed the party, and it is clear his allegiance lies elsewhere,” Adeleke added.

Fayose’s Endorsement of Oyebanji Sparks Controversy

Former Governor Fayose’s open endorsement of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, a member of the APC, has created ripples within the Ekiti PDP. At the inauguration of the Dehead/Faglo Road project, Fayose publicly praised Oyebanji for his achievements, vowing to support his second-term bid. His exact words, “I am very proud of you. You have done well,” were seen by many as a clear indication that Fayose has distanced himself from the PDP.

This endorsement did not sit well with PDP leaders, who felt betrayed by one of their most prominent figures in the state. Dare Adeleke expressed disappointment, noting that Fayose’s remarks were damaging to the party’s public image. He emphasized that Fayose’s actions could confuse voters about the PDP’s values and commitment to challenging the APC’s governance in Ekiti.

Calls for Expulsion and Allegations of Betrayal

The Ekiti PDP has made it clear that they view Fayose’s behavior as a betrayal of the party’s mission. Adeleke called on the PDP’s national leadership to expel Fayose and his allies without delay, stating that their continued presence in the party would be harmful. “Ayo Fayose must be expelled from the PDP,” Adeleke declared, asserting that Fayose’s loyalties now lie with Governor Oyebanji.

The party also criticized Fayose for allegedly benefiting financially from his relationship with the governor. Adeleke questioned the basis of Fayose’s repeated claims that Oyebanji had visited him several times over the last two years, implying that the former governor may have been receiving financial incentives. “Fayose’s actions are self-serving. He only praises Oyebanji because he expects more from him,” Adeleke said.

PDP Criticizes Oyebanji’s Governance

In addition to condemning Fayose, the Ekiti PDP criticized Governor Oyebanji’s administration, arguing that it had failed to deliver meaningful progress in the state. Adeleke pointed to what he described as “decadent infrastructure,” a deteriorating health sector, and poor security under Oyebanji’s leadership. He argued that Fayose’s praise of the governor was out of touch with the reality of Ekiti’s situation.

Adeleke’s statement further accused Fayose of misleading the public by portraying Oyebanji’s administration as a success when, in reality, the state has seen little to no progress. “We must confront the reality of the past two years under Governor Oyebanji. It has been a period marked by stagnation, with little improvement in key areas of governance,” Adeleke stated.

Social Media Reactions and Calls for Action

Fayose’s controversial actions have not only sparked outrage within the PDP but have also ignited debates on social media. On X (formerly Twitter), several users expressed their support for the party’s decision to move towards expelling the former governor. Adedayo Akinwunmi, a prominent voice on X, stated, “It’s long overdue. PDP needs to reorganize itself. The mediocrity being celebrated in Ekiti as good governance is laughable.”

Another user, Ayo Aluko, added, “It is visible to the blind and audible to the deaf that this is long overdue. Expel Fayose and his cohorts.” Others like Kehinde joined in the conversation, urging the PDP to take swift action to rid itself of individuals they believe are undermining the party. The sentiment on social media reflects a widespread belief that Fayose’s actions have caused significant damage to the PDP in Ekiti State.

A Divisive Chapter in Ekiti Politics

As the Ekiti PDP moves closer to finalizing Fayose’s expulsion, the party faces a pivotal moment in its political journey. While some argue that expelling the former governor is necessary for the party’s survival and rebranding, others fear that the internal rift could weaken the PDP’s chances in future elections. However, Adeleke and the PDP Caretaker Committee remain resolute in their decision, emphasizing that the party’s focus must now shift to rebuilding its strength and addressing the needs of Ekiti State.

The coming weeks will determine whether Fayose’s political influence in the state can withstand this latest controversy, or if his expulsion will mark the end of his era within the Peoples Democratic Party. For now, Ekiti politics remains tense as party members await the final decision from the PDP’s national leadership.