Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has intensified his criticism of Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, accusing him of abusing power, dismantling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) structures across the South-West, and allegedly collecting ₦50 billion from President Bola Tinubu in connection with the Ibadan gas explosion.
Speaking during a political gathering attended by PDP stakeholders, Fayose alleged that Governor Makinde had sidelined party loyalists who supported his emergence, accusing him of betraying the collective struggle that brought him to prominence within the party. Fayose claimed that Makinde now dominates PDP structures in the region and deploys state power to silence dissenting voices.
The former governor further alleged that Makinde took over choice lands in Oyo State and imposed candidates in Osun State elections, actions he said weakened internal democracy and deepened divisions within the PDP in the South-West.
In one of his most controversial claims, Fayose alleged that Makinde received ₦50 billion from President Bola Tinubu following the deadly Ibadan gas explosion, insisting that the matter raised serious concerns about transparency and accountability. Fayose did not present documentary evidence but maintained that the issue was widely discussed in political circles and should be openly addressed.
Fayose also claimed that he was attacked at a recent political event, alleging that the incident was “orchestrated by Governor Makinde.” He described the alleged attack as disrespectful and unacceptable, stressing that intimidation would not diminish his voice as an elder statesman of the PDP.
“I have no political godfather and I will never have one,” Fayose declared, adding that his political relevance was earned through years of grassroots engagement, not through coercion or patronage.
Reaffirming his political stance, Fayose declared unwavering loyalty to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, whom he described as principled and fearless. He dismissed speculations of defecting to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), stating emphatically: “I will never join the APC.”
The allegations have further heightened tensions within the PDP in the South-West, as party leaders and the public await an official response from Governor Makinde or the Oyo State Government. As of the time of filing this report, no reaction had been issued.