Ekiti PDP Rejects Fayose’s Endorsement of Oyebanji

The Ekiti State chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has officially dismissed the endorsement of Governor Biodun Oyebanji for a second term by former Governor Ayodele Fayose. The PDP leadership in Ekiti has expressed strong disapproval of Fayose’s actions, labeling it as anti-party behavior. Despite Fayose’s influence within the party, the PDP remains confident that his endorsement will not affect the outcome of the 2026 governorship election, where they aim to unseat the incumbent governor from the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement signed by the State Secretary, Mrs. Ogun Funmilayo Theresa (OFT), and released by her Media Adviser, Olayinka Atenibiaje, the party emphasized that Fayose’s personal choices would not deter the PDP from its mission to reclaim power in Ekiti. The statement highlighted that the PDP is currently undergoing an internal reform process in preparation for the 2026 election, demonstrating their readiness to challenge the APC’s governance record in the state.

People’s Democratic Party’s Strategy for the 2026 Governorship Election

As the Ekiti PDP gears up for the 2026 governorship election, the party is focused on presenting itself as a viable alternative to the APC. According to Mrs. Funmi Ogun, the People’s Democratic Party is confident that the electorate will hold Governor Oyebanji accountable for his administration’s performance over the past years. Ogun criticized the governor for what she described as poor governance, despite the state’s substantial revenue inflows from the federation account, averaging N6.5 billion monthly.

Ogun pointed out that while the state’s wage bill stands at N2.3 billion, there is little evidence of the remaining funds being used effectively for the state’s development. She specifically mentioned the slow progress of key infrastructure projects, such as the flyover in Ado-Ekiti, which is still far from completion. The People’s Democratic Party believes that the people of Ekiti are becoming increasingly disillusioned with the current administration and are ready to vote for change in the upcoming election.

Fayose’s Fundamental Rights vs. Party Loyalty

While the PDP leadership remains firm in its stance against Fayose’s endorsement of Oyebanji, Mrs. Funmi Ogun acknowledged the former governor’s right to support any candidate of his choice. She emphasized that democracy allows individuals to exercise their fundamental rights, including the freedom to endorse political candidates. However, Ogun reiterated that Fayose’s personal choices would not influence the PDP’s commitment to defeating the APC in 2026.

Ogun further stated that despite her respect for Fayose as a leader, the People’s Democratic Party is focused on the bigger picture, which is to reclaim Ekiti State for the party. She highlighted the recent #EndBadGovernance protests across Nigeria as a sign that citizens are increasingly dissatisfied with the ruling APC at both state and federal levels. The PDP is capitalizing on this growing discontent and is determined to offer the people of Ekiti a credible alternative in the next governorship election.

Fayose’s Endorsement of Oyebanji: A Sign of Crisis in Ekiti PDP

The open endorsement of Governor Biodun Oyebanji by former Governor Ayodele Fayose has raised concerns about the state of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State. Fayose, a key figure in the PDP, publicly backing a candidate from the All Progressives Congress (APC) signals deep-rooted issues within the party. This unexpected move is seen as evidence that the PDP is embroiled in a political crisis, one that threatens to undermine its fortunes in the upcoming 2026 governorship election.

The endorsement has sparked a debate about the lack of cohesion and leadership within the Ekiti People’s Democratic Party. As an opposition party, the PDP is expected to provide a strong alternative to the ruling APC, but the current discord and apparent lack of purposeful leadership are eroding its effectiveness. The party’s struggles to maintain unity and present a united front could severely impact its chances in future elections, leaving it weakened and vulnerable.

Call for Discipline and Leadership in Ekiti PDP

As the 2026 governorship election approaches, the PDP faces a critical moment. It is imperative for the party to address the internal challenges that have plagued it in recent years. The lack of discipline, as demonstrated by Fayose’s public support for an APC governor, needs to be addressed decisively. The PDP leadership must take strong action against such behavior to reinforce party discipline and reassert its supremacy.

By taking firm steps to restore order and discipline within its ranks, the PDP can work towards becoming a viable opposition once again. This would not only enhance governance in Ekiti State but also provide the electorate with a credible alternative in the forthcoming elections. To achieve this, the People’s Democratic Party must demonstrate a commitment to its core values and responsibilities as an opposition party, ensuring that it plays its role effectively in the democratic process.