Nigeria: Why I'm Supporting Ekiti Gov Despite Party Differences - Fayose

A former governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, has said his support for the incumbent state governor, Biodun Oyebanji, was because of the mutual respect between them, insisting that when it's time for the election, he will not hesitate to go against him.

Fayose, a chieftain of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), has come under criticism lately for allegedly hobnobbing with and benefiting from appointments from Governor Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

But addressing his supporters in Ado-Ekiti yesterday ahead of the ward congress of the PDP coming up next month, Fayose stated that those saying that he got an appointment from Governor Oyebanji should stop playing politics of bitterness, stressing that the state belongs to the PDP and APC.

"I feel satisfied with the work of Governor Oyebanji, done so far in the state.

"Governor Oyebanji is a humble governor. Thirteen times, he has visited me in Lagos to greet me. We discussed the progress and development of the state. I have to respect him, which has nothing to do with politics; he is the only governor who has brought all governors in the state together.

"When it is time for the election, we will confront him. We supported Asiwaju in the last presidential election because he is a Yoruba man, and it's time for our presidency. I am not looking for a position. If you say Fayose does not matter, wait; during the election you will see," he added.

He also appealed to members of the PDP in the state to close ranks and work for peace for the party to win the next governorship and other elective positions in the state.

Fayose, who debunked the allegation that he has dumped the PDP for the APC, said he is not and will never be an APC member.

"When we come to the election period, we will fight Governor Oyebanji. The PDP is not in order in Ekiti; let us come together," he added.

Join Daily Trust WhatsApp Community For Quick Access To News and Happenings Around You.

AllAfrica publishes around 500 reports a day from more than 100 news organizations and over 500 other institutions and individuals, representing a diversity of positions on every topic. We publish news and views ranging from vigorous opponents of governments to government publications and spokespersons. Publishers named above each report are responsible for their own content, which AllAfrica does not have the legal right to edit or correct.

Articles and commentaries that identify allAfrica.com as the publisher are produced or commissioned by AllAfrica. To address comments or complaints, please Contact us.