Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has addressed both political dynamics in the state and growing speculation around his family’s political interests, asserting that Governor Abiodun Oyebanji is unbeatable in the coming 2026 election.
Speaking during a candid interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, with Seun Okinbaloye, Fayose made it clear that while he respects and loves his brothers, he remains the political torchbearer of the Fayose family.
“I am the ‘kokari’ (head) carrier of that family… If my brother or brothers are doing whatever they are doing, I should do better,” he said, sidestepping direct comments on their political ambitions.
Fayose maintained his leadership status in Ekiti politics, stating, “The only person that is my senior in the politics of Ekiti is Niyi Adebayo. Fayemi comes after me… I was Governor before Governor Segun Oni. I was the Ekùn (lion) of the road.”
He however heaped praise on Governor Oyebanji, expressing confidence in his widespread support across the state. “There is nobody that will defeat Abiodun Oyebanji… I want to tell you, he will win in all the 177 wards in Ekiti,” he declared, insisting that even if his brother sought to contest, clinching the PDP ticket would be the first hurdle.
Fayose further disclosed that all former governors of Ekiti — including himself, Niyi Adebayo, Kayode Fayemi, and Segun Oni — are united in their support for Oyebanji. “Anyone among us who says Fayose is lying, let him come out,” he dared.
The former governor also touched on the zoning debate, warning against marginalising Ekiti South in future governorship rotations. “Nobody can go for another senatorial district after this election other than the South because people will resist it,” he warned.
