Ekiti PDP Governorship Candidate Faults Fayose Over Oyebanji Endorsement

The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State, Dr. Wole Oluyede, has criticized former governor Ayodele Fayose for endorsing Governor Biodun Oyebanji ahead of the state’s governorship election, arguing that the incumbent’s performance does not warrant such support.

Oluyede made the remarks during an interactive session with journalists in Ado-Ekiti, where he dismissed claims that Fayose’s backing of the governor would significantly influence the outcome of the election.

According to the PDP candidate, while Fayose is entitled to his political opinion and has the constitutional right to support any candidate of his choice, his decision to endorse Oyebanji was misguided and inconsistent with the expectations of many Ekiti residents seeking improved governance.

He maintained that the performance of the current administration falls short of the standards required to justify public endorsement, insisting that voters would ultimately assess candidates based on their records and campaign promises rather than political endorsements.

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Oluyede argued that the forthcoming election would be determined by the electorate’s evaluation of governance, development and leadership qualities rather than the influence of any individual political figure.

The PDP candidate also expressed confidence in his chances at the polls, stating that his campaign had continued to receive support from residents across the state’s 16 local government areas.

He said the PDP remained focused on presenting its vision for economic development, job creation, improved infrastructure and better social services, adding that the party would continue engaging with voters ahead of the election.

Responding to suggestions that Fayose’s political stature could sway public opinion, Oluyede said political dynamics in the state had evolved and that voters were increasingly making decisions based on issues affecting their daily lives.

He noted that endorsements, while significant in politics, do not automatically translate into electoral victory, particularly when citizens are confronted with economic and developmental challenges.

Political observers have closely monitored the relationship between Fayose and the ruling administration, especially following the former governor’s public support for Oyebanji despite being a prominent member of the opposition PDP.

The endorsement has generated debate within political circles in Ekiti, with some party members questioning the implications for the PDP’s electoral strategy ahead of the governorship contest.

However, Oluyede insisted that the development would not weaken the party’s campaign efforts, expressing confidence that PDP supporters and undecided voters would rally behind its agenda for the state.

As preparations for the election gather momentum, political parties are expected to intensify campaigns across Ekiti, with governance, infrastructure, economic growth and social welfare likely to dominate public discourse in the months leading to the polls.