Former Ekiti State governor, Ayodele Fayose, has reaffirmed his support for Governor Biodun Oyebanji and President Bola Tinubu ahead of the June 20, 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State and 2027 presidential election, respectively.
Fayose also declared that he would not support the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the forthcoming governorship election because of the faction that produced the party’s candidate for the poll. He, however, stated that he would neither condemn nor criticise the candidate.
The former governor made the remarks during a live radio programme on Our People’s 104.1 FM, Ado-Ekiti, which was simultaneously broadcast on radio and television stations across the state.
Reflecting on his political journey, Fayose recalled how he challenged the incumbent governor during the 2003 governorship election, noting that he entered the race fully prepared and determined to win.
“When I came to Ekiti in 2002 to contest against the incumbent governor, I started by distributing water and kerosene to the people. I prepared fully as an opposition candidate and was determined to win the election,” he said.
Justifying his support for the incumbent governor, Fayose questioned the commitment of some opposition figures in the state, arguing that successful electioneering requires dedication, strategic planning and direct engagement with the electorate.
“Today, how many of Governor Oyebanji’s opponents have truly played the role of an opposition determined to defeat the incumbent? It is clear for everyone to see who is genuinely campaigning like someone who wants to win, just as I did back then,” he stated.
According to him, winning elections requires hard work, commitment, strategy and consistent interaction with the people.
He maintained that Governor Oyebanji enjoys widespread support among the people of Ekiti State, describing the electorate as the greatest strength of any political candidate.
“Oyebanji has the people, and the people remain the greatest strength in any election,” Fayose added.
