Fayose backs Tinubu, Oyebanji for second term ahead of 2027
By Jeffrey Agbo
Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has thrown his weight behind President Bola Tinubu and Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s bid for re-election, declaring his support despite being a member of the opposition.
Speaking during a political gathering held in Ado-Ekiti on Monday, Fayose openly endorsed both leaders, signalling a shift from party-based loyalty to performance-based assessment.
“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.
He described the gathering as significant, noting that it was the first time in recent history that all former governors, state political leaders, and members of the National Assembly from Ekiti were present, which he said was a demonstration of unity and political maturity.
Although not affiliated with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Fayose said his support was informed by the governor’s performance and character.
“I am not a member of his 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,” he added.
Reflecting on his own time in office, Fayose highlighted his past electoral success across all 16 local government areas and 177 wards of the state. He challenged Oyebanji to replicate the feat, setting it as a benchmark for future contests.
“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,” Fayose said.
He also commended former Governor Segun Oni and other political figures for fostering unity in the state, describing the show of solidarity as a model for other parts of the country.
“This unity is a model for all states in Nigeria,” he added.
Fayose also mocked PDP members who recently defected to the APC, expressing approval of their decisions while distancing himself from any intention to do the same.
“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.
