Former Chairman of the Ekiti State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Gboyega Oguntuase, has provided insight into the party's current efforts to mobilize and strategize for future elections in the state. These efforts, according to Oguntuase, are being undertaken without the involvement of former governor Ayodele Fayose, who has distanced himself from the party.
GistReel reports that Fayose, who has recently faced accusations of engaging in anti-party activities within the Ekiti State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party [/b](PDP), has publicly endorsed the current governor, Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC), for a second term in office. This endorsement has caused unease among PDP members, as it signifies a major shift in loyalty from the former governor and may affect the party’s strategies moving forward.
The actions of Fayose have sparked widespread conversations about the future of the PDP in Ekiti State as it prepares for the upcoming elections. Many have questioned what this means for the party’s internal cohesion and ability to rally behind a single candidate in future contests.
Speaking with reporters in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, on Thursday, Oguntuase voiced his concerns, stating that the conduct of the former governor in recent months has clearly demonstrated his lack of loyalty to the opposition party. Oguntuase pointed out that Fayose’s behavior, particularly his endorsement of a rival party's candidate, signals his intent to distance himself from the PDP.
In his own words, Oguntuase explained: “There are many things the PDP considers more important than the recent actions of Fayose. What is of utmost importance to us is that we must focus on organizing and planning to win the upcoming elections without him, especially since he has made it clear that he is no longer with us.”
He continued: “This is far more crucial than rushing to his ward to get him suspended or expelled. In reality, it is the media who are giving him unnecessary attention; for us, he is not a priority. What matters most is rebuilding our party, and that is where our focus is at the moment.”
Oguntuase added that Fayose has been transparent enough in his recent actions to indicate that he no longer sees himself as a loyal PDP member. He emphasized that Fayose’s repeated declarations supporting the re-election of the APC’s Governor, Abayomi Oyebanji, demonstrate his intention to oppose the PDP in the next gubernatorial election.
“Fayose has clearly stated, on multiple occasions, that he believes Governor Abayomi Oyebanji deserves another four years in office. As far as we are concerned, when someone like him, who is not committed to our party’s growth, complains about being excluded from PDP’s future plans, it only serves to highlight his contradictions,” Oguntuase remarked.
He went on to say, “Do you expect us to make a mistake by involving someone who acts as an opposition figure or a spy in our strategic plans? The answer is a clear no. The party leadership, which set up the caretaker committee, took all these factors into account when making decisions about the future direction of the PDP in Ekiti State.”
Oguntuase expressed optimism about the recent formation of a caretaker committee, which he believes will allow dedicated and loyal members to concentrate on strengthening the party ahead of the next elections. He believes the committee, led by Lanre Adeleke, will serve as a rallying point for committed PDP members and provide a platform for rebuilding efforts to take root in the state.
“The caretaker committee, which is led by Lanre Adeleke, is a significant step in the right direction for those of us who are truly committed to the growth and rejuvenation of the party. In fact, it will encourage us to collaborate with members from across different political affiliations to bring more supporters into the fold,” Oguntuase said with confidence.
He concluded, “I am particularly pleased to see that caretaker committees have been established in all the local government areas of the state. This move will undoubtedly provide the framework for a series of activities aimed at revitalizing the party and positioning it for future electoral success.”