Former Governor of Ekiti Dr Kayode Fayemi Refutes Viral Claim Linking Him to New Political Movement

Former Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, has firmly denied allegations that he co-founded a new African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition alongside former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi. The clarification came after a statement allegedly attributed to Amaechi, claiming the two politicians initiated the coalition before inviting others, began circulating widely on social media.

In a statement issued on Sunday by Ahmad Sajoh, Head of the Fayemi Media Office in Abuja, the former governor dismissed the claims as baseless, stressing that no credible evidence supports the assertion. “Despite efforts to verify this statement, which has gained traction on social and digital media, we have found no credible evidence to support it. No video of Hon. Amaechi making these claims or reports from reputable media organisations has been located,” Sajoh said.

He added that the statement could be a fabrication designed to stir controversy or gain political advantage, cautioning the public against relying solely on unverified social media reports about Fayemi. “It is possible that Amaechi did not make the statement or was misquoted,” he noted.

Kayode Fayemi Firm Commitment to APC and Progressive Ideals

Kayode Fayemi reaffirmed his unwavering membership and leadership role within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State, stressing that nothing has changed regarding his political allegiance. “We unequivocally state that these claims lack any basis. Dr Fayemi remains a committed member and leader of the APC in Ekiti State,” Sajoh emphasised.

The former governor has, on several occasions, reiterated his dedication to the APC’s progressive principles, both in Ekiti and at the national level. He has actively engaged in efforts to strengthen the party, resolve internal challenges, and advance its vision for a better Nigeria.

Importantly, Fayemi has publicly endorsed Governor Biodun Oyebanji for re-election, underlining his loyalty to the APC and its gubernatorial candidate. His visible support for Oyebanji, according to Sajoh, is a clear indication of his steadfast commitment to the party’s success in the forthcoming Ekiti State governorship election.

Kayode Fayemi Political Relationships Beyond Party Lines

Describing Fayemi as a politician and thought leader with deep networks across political, ethnic, religious, and regional divides, Sajoh explained that his engagements in national conversations should not be misinterpreted as defection plans.

Kayode Fayemi, he said, frequently participates in high-level discussions on Nigeria’s democratic future, governance reforms, and strategies to address the country’s pressing challenges. “These conversations, however, do not amount to defections or leaving the APC,” the statement clarified.

Sajoh stressed that if the former governor ever chose to leave the APC, he would announce it openly rather than through rumours or third-party claims. “Dr Fayemi has the courage to pursue his convictions. If he were to leave the APC, he would make it public and not require a third party to do so,” he asserted.

Public Visibility and International Engagements

The statement also addressed speculation that Kayode Fayemi’s reduced political visibility might be driving rumours about his party affiliation. According to Sajoh, this perception is misleading, as the former governor has been actively involved in international and academic pursuits.

Fayemi currently serves as a visiting professor at King’s College London and is the founder of the Amandla Institute, roles that have demanded considerable attention and time. These commitments, while keeping him away from day-to-day public political engagements at the national level, have not diminished his activities within Ekiti State’s APC structures.

In Ekiti, Kayode Fayemi has participated in multiple party leadership meetings and maintained a strong presence in supporting the governor and party leadership ahead of the elections. “While this may be true at the national level, it does not apply in Ekiti State,” Sajoh clarified.

Call for Caution Amid Political Speculation

Sajoh urged the public and media outlets to exercise caution when consuming politically charged content originating solely from social media platforms. He warned that such unverified reports could be part of orchestrated attempts to sow division and confusion ahead of the 2026 elections.

Reiterating Fayemi’s political stance, he said, “We state again, maybe for the umpteenth time, Dr Fayemi remains a principal member of the APC and is fully behind the party in the forthcoming gubernatorial election in Ekiti State.”

With his unambiguous rejection of the ADC coalition rumours, Fayemi’s camp appears focused on reinforcing party unity and supporting the APC’s re-election efforts in the state. Whether this will quell persistent political speculation remains to be seen, but for now, Fayemi’s message is clear: his loyalty to the APC is unwavering.