Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has defended his support for President Bola Tinubu at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national convention, arguing that prioritizing national interest and competence over party loyalty does not constitute anti-party activity
Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has stirred debate within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) by asserting that supporting President Bola Tinubu is a matter of national interest that transcends political party loyalty. Speaking at the PDP national convention in Abuja on Sunday, March 29, 2026, Fayose maintained that political differences are a healthy and normal feature of any functioning democracy. He argued that his primary identity as an “Ekiti man” precedes his status as a party card bearer, noting that such regional and national ties often necessitate cooperation across the aisle for the greater good of the country.
During his address, Fayose cited international political figures to illustrate that supporting a rival candidate on specific national issues should not lead to disciplinary action or expulsion. “Obama is not supporting the Democrats, the former president is not supporting Trump, have they expelled them? No, democracy will have those differences on national issues,” he stated. He emphasized that the focus of the opposition should remain on the “historic achievements” of the nation rather than strictly enforcing partisan rigidity, which he believes can hinder progress when a party’s own candidate may lack the necessary capacity for the task at hand.
Fayose concluded by challenging the convention delegates to assess political leaders based on their proven competence and administrative track record rather than mere party symbols. He questioned the logic of supporting a candidate based solely on affiliation if a superior alternative exists, pointedly asking the audience: “We must not say because it’s our party member that must win when we know our party member has no capacity. Would you compare a Makinde with an Asiwaju?” As the PDP continues to grapple with internal divisions and the fallout of previous expulsions, Fayose’s remarks underscore a growing factional debate over the party’s direction and its relationship with the incumbent administration heading toward 2027.
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