In a political drama reminiscent of Shakespeare, former Ekiti State governor Ayodele Fayose has created a stir in the political arena by proclaiming that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) — the very platform that elevated him to the governorship twice — is “dead” in Ekiti. His remarks, as sharp as a sword, have penetrated deeply into the core of the opposition party, leaving a trail of confusion, anger, and a pressing question: is Fayose revealing a harsh truth or merely executing one of his infamous political theatrics?
Addressing an audience in Ado Ekiti on Monday, the former governor, who is regarded as one of the most contentious figures in Nigeria’s political landscape, unleashed his now-infamous statement: “Where is the PDP in Ekiti? To be completely honest, where are the party members? Where are the meetings of the PDP being conducted? The party is utterly lifeless — much like the situation at the national level.”
For Fayose, the implication was unmistakable — the PDP, once a formidable entity in Ekiti politics, has devolved into a mere shadow of its former self. He depicted a bleak scenario of a party in denial, sustained only by illusions and nostalgia. “There are four aspirants in the PDP,” he remarked with evident contempt. “And the most tragic reality for any individual is to be deceiving oneself. The greatest misfortune for a PDP member is self-deception.”
To heighten the political tension, Fayose did not limit his criticism to his own party — he also extended praise across party lines to Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC), referring to him as the people’s choice and forecasting his overwhelming success in the upcoming governorship election on June 20, 2026. “Oyebanji is performing admirably,” Fayose asserted. “I am not affiliated with the APC and will never be, but I refuse to undermine or denounce what is commendable simply because I belong to the opposition. Oyebanji is the candidate that the people of Ekiti desire until 2030.”
Those remarks — originating from one of the most outspoken leaders of the PDP — were nothing less than a political outrage. True to his characteristic style, Fayose appeared to enjoy the ensuing controversy. Renowned for his candidness and erratic decisions, Fayose has consistently acted as a political independent — at times advocating for his party, and at other times, severing ties within it.
Yet, beyond the theatrics, his statements highlight some uncomfortable realities. The PDP in Ekiti has indeed been facing challenges. Internal strife, defections, and fragile grassroots frameworks have left the party in a precarious position. Even the most devoted members privately concede that the party is lacking in direction. Fayose, whether out of exasperation or insight, may simply be articulating what others are hesitant to express.
Nevertheless, not everyone shares this perspective. The Ekiti PDP Chairman, Tunji Odeyemi, promptly responded, labeling Fayose’s remarks as “unfortunate” and “disrespectful.”
“It is regrettable for a former governor to utter such statements against the party that enabled his two terms in office,” Odeyemi expressed with indignation. “He is not infallible — the party will astonish him.”
Odeyemi maintains that the PDP is vibrant and preparing for a resurgence, citing its four gubernatorial aspirants — Dr. Wole Oluyede, Mrs. Funmi Ogun, Mr. Funso Ayeni, and Peter Obafemi — as evidence of its tenacity. “The primary will be conducted fairly and transparently,” he promised. “We will nominate a formidable candidate who will challenge the governor. The PDP will triumph next year.”
However, even his optimism appears strained in light of Fayose’s critique. For numerous observers, the ex-governor’s comments could very well signify the final blow to the party’s prospects in Ekiti. Fayose’s political sway in the state is significant — his statements continue to influence grassroots opinions. And if he, a long-standing pillar of the PDP, is now praising Oyebanji, what chance does the PDP have of uniting its fractured support base?
In Nigerian politics, nothing is ever truly conclusive. Fayose’s announcement may serve as a tactical maneuver — a shocking strategy aimed at compelling the PDP leadership to awaken and reconstruct. Alternatively, it could signify the initial step in a gradual, calculated exit from a failing situation.
Regardless of his intentions, one fact is undeniable: Fayose has once again captured public attention. His political revelation has not only unsettled the PDP but has also invigorated the political dialogue in Ekiti. Whether perceived as treachery or stark honesty, his statements have established the atmosphere for what is expected to be an intense lead-up to the 2026 governorship election.
Within the realm of Ekiti politics, Ayodele Fayose continues to play the roles of both performer and orchestrator — unpredictable, unapologetic, and utterly unmissable.
