Former Governor of Ekiti State and a prominent figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ayodele Fayose, has formally endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office, even as he pledged his support for the re-election of Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, and his deputy.

Fayose made the declaration on Monday during a high-profile All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders’ event held at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion in Ado-Ekiti. The event was attended by top political leaders, including former governors of the state, lawmakers, party chieftains, and traditional rulers.

While addressing the gathering, Fayose, known for his fiery and unconventional political style, said his endorsement was based on his belief in Tinubu’s leadership capacity and Oyebanji’s performance as governor.

“I want to join all well-meaning Nigerians, particularly Ekiti leaders and followers, to endorse publicly, without reservation, the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for a second term. I also want to equally endorse our Governor, Abayomi Oyebanji, and his deputy, for another term in office,” Fayose stated.

He described the event as a rare and significant occasion in Ekiti’s political history, pointing out that it had united key stakeholders across party lines including all living former governors of the state and several members of the National Assembly.

Despite his open support for candidates of the ruling APC, Fayose was quick to dispel speculations about his political allegiance, stressing that he remained a loyal PDP member. He reminded the audience of his political strength, referencing his landslide victory in 2014, when he won all 16 local government areas of the state to become governor.

“I am not defecting to APC,” he declared. “Who will, for the first time again, become the record holder to win in all 16 local governments of Ekiti and in all the 177 wards? That’s taken for granted. But when we get to the field, we will contest and see each other.”

The former governor called on Ekiti residents to set aside political differences and rally support for Governor Oyebanji, whom he described as a humble and performing leader deserving of continuity.

While throwing his weight behind the current administration in the state, Fayose did not shy away from taking jabs at the APC, saying the party cannot be compared to the PDP in terms of commitment to public welfare and social policies.

Nonetheless, he promised to support Oyebanji’s administration in both words and action, reiterating that good governance should be the ultimate priority, irrespective of party affiliation.

Fayose’s endorsement is expected to generate ripples within the PDP and across the broader political spectrum, especially as preparations begin ahead of the 2026 governorship election in Ekiti and the 2027 general elections nationwide.

Political observers have noted that his statements may reflect a new phase of realignment within the state’s political structure a move that could reshape alliances in the months to come.