Former Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, has categorically denied rumors that he has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking in Ado Ekiti on Monday, Fayose emphasized his commitment to revitalizing the PDP and ensuring its success in the 2026 elections.
Fayose, a vocal advocate for power returning to the South in the 2023 election, had aligned with the Nyesom Wike-led G5 faction to oppose PDP’s presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar. During the campaign, Fayose openly supported APC’s candidate, President Bola Tinubu.
Addressing his supporters, Fayose dismissed claims of accepting an appointment from APC Governor Biodun Oyebanji, asserting that his respect for Oyebanji was based on personal rapport, not political allegiance.
“I have come to tell you that the PDP must not die in Ekiti State. I want you to have peace, please don’t destroy my personality,” Fayose urged.
Fayose praised Oyebanji’s humility and efforts to foster unity among Ekiti’s governors, noting, “BAO is a humble governor. Thirteen times, he visited me in Lagos to greet me. We discussed the progress and development of the state. I have to respect him. That has nothing to do with politics.”
Asserting his intent to challenge Oyebanji in the next election, Fayose called on PDP members to unite, saying, “When we come to the election period, we will fight BAO. The PDP is not in order in Ekiti, let us come together.”
Fayose stressed the importance of internal harmony within the PDP to overcome the APC in future elections. “Let there be no Biodun Olujimi, Ayodele Fayose, Bisi Kolawole, or Duro Faseyi factions in the PDP. Let us work for peace to be able to win elections in the state,” he stated.
He also announced the commencement of campaigns in two local government areas, pledging logistical support to ensure the PDP’s success.
“I am not looking for opposition. If you say Fayose does not matter, wait, during the election you will see,” he declared.