Former governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose has declared that while President Bola Tinubu deserves commendation for his early efforts to stabilise Nigeria’s economy, he remains firmly committed to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and has no intention of defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The former governor however warned that PDP risks becoming a political carcass if its leadership fails to take decisive action.
Fayose made the remarks on Monday night during a courtesy visit to President Tinubu at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos.
The outspoken politician used the occasion to commend the President’s courage in confronting the nation’s economic challenges, stating that progress is visible, even if gradual.
“There is no miracle that can turn things around overnight,” Fayose said. “But for the little the President has done, we must commend him. Stabilising an economy that was on the brink is no small feat.”
He emphasised that his support for President Tinubu’s leadership is rooted in longstanding respect and belief in his capacity, not political alignment.
“I was a critic of the last administration, but you cannot compare the situation now. I am here today, not just because of the President’s homecoming, but to encourage him to do more for the country,” he said.
Despite his praise for Tinubu, Fayose made it unequivocally clear that he is not defecting to the ruling party. “Let me be very clear: Ayodele Fayose will not move from PDP to any other political party — not even the APC.
“I’m 65 years old this year. Defection is a personal choice. I can only speak for myself,” he stressed.
Fayose acknowledged the current turmoil within the PDP, warning that if the leadership fails to take decisive action, the party risks becoming a political “carcass.”
“Truthfully, the PDP is in serious trouble. If something drastic is not done, the party will become a carcass. That is the gospel truth,” he said.
Pressed on what steps he is taking to help rescue the party, Fayose explained that while he no longer occupies a frontline position in national politics, he remains a committed party man.
“I’m not a sitting governor anymore. When I was in office, I played my part. I was a strong voice for the PDP. Today, I can only play a supportive role, but I won’t stop telling the truth.”
Fayose also commended the Governor of Ekiti State, Abiodun Oyebanji, describing his performance as “outstanding” and worthy of bipartisan support.
“In Ekiti, governance goes beyond party lines. Our state is our primary constituency. And we all support the governor to succeed, regardless of political affiliation,” he said.
According to him, President Tinubu had reaffirmed his support for Governor Oyebanji during their meeting — a reassurance Fayose said he appreciated, given the political speculations surrounding the governor’s position.
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