In a recent development, tensions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State have come to light, revealing a rift between former governor Ayodele Fayose and the party’s leadership. A report from The Punch newspaper has shed light on this internal conflict, featuring statements from Chief Gboyega Oguntuwase, a former chairman of the PDP in Ekiti State.
Oguntuwase, in his comments to The Punch, suggested that Fayose’s discontent with the party stems from his exclusion from strategic planning for the upcoming Ekiti governorship elections. The former chairman went further, implying that Fayose’s intentions may not align with the party’s interests.
“Why Fayose is not happy is that he would have wanted to know everything about our plans towards the governorship so that he could undo us and expose our secret to the APC,” Oguntuwase stated. He added, “He has been kind enough to show that he will undo the PDP in the next governorship election in Ekiti.”
The former chairman’s comments paint a picture of a party grappling with issues of loyalty and trust. Oguntuwase pointed out Fayose’s public support for the incumbent governor, Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as evidence of his misalignment with PDP objectives. “He has clearly indicated that he would be for the opposition in the next election. He declared at every fora that he attends or that is available to him that Oyebanji should have another four years,” Oguntuwase claimed.
Defending the party’s decision to exclude Fayose from strategic discussions, Oguntuwase argued, “As far as we are concerned, if such a person is again complaining that he is not included in strategic development of PDP, you will see that it will be self-contradictory. You want us to bring a spy or our enemy into our strategic plan, no.”
These revelations highlight the challenges facing the PDP in Ekiti State as it prepares for the upcoming governorship elections. The party appears to be taking measures to safeguard its strategies and maintain a united front, even if it means distancing itself from prominent figures like Fayose.
As the political landscape in Ekiti State continues to evolve, the PDP’s internal dynamics will likely play a crucial role in shaping its electoral prospects. The party’s ability to navigate these internal challenges may well determine its success in the forthcoming elections.