Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has publicly endorsed President Bola Tinubu and current Governor Biodun Oyebanji for re-election in 2027, marking a significant cross-party political declaration.
Speaking at a political gathering in Ado-Ekiti on Monday, Fayose made an unprecedented announcement of support for both leaders despite remaining a member of the opposition party. His endorsement has drawn attention as a rare instance of cross-party backing in Nigerian politics.
“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 declared to the gathering.
The former governor emphasized that his support was based purely on performance rather than political allegiance, making it clear that he would not be joining the ruling All Progressives Congress despite his endorsement.
“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,” Fayose stated firmly.
Fayose characterized the political gathering as a “unique event,” noting the impressive turnout of former governors, state leaders, and National Assembly members from Ekiti State. He praised the show of unity as evidence of political maturity within the state.
“This unity is a model for all states in Nigeria,” he observed, suggesting that Ekiti’s approach to politics could serve as an example for other states across the country.
Drawing on his own political legacy, Fayose reminded attendees of his electoral success during his tenure, boasting about achieving victories across all 16 local government areas and 177 wards in Ekiti State. He issued a challenge to the current governor to match this comprehensive electoral performance.
“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, setting a benchmark for Oyebanji’s re-election campaign.
The former governor also addressed recent political defections to the APC, expressing approval for those who had switched parties while maintaining his own position outside the ruling party.
“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 declared, drawing a clear line regarding his own political allegiance.
