A former Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose has stirred fresh political debate within the (PDP) following his remarks defending support for President Tinubu, despite being a member of the opposition party.
Fayose, known for his outspoken stance on national issues, argued that political decisions should be guided by competence and capacity rather than blind party loyalty. According to him, it is unreasonable to insist that a party member must be supported at all costs, even when such an individual lacks the ability to deliver effective leadership.
“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 to an Asiwaju?” Fayose stated, in what appears to be a pointed comparison between Oyo State Governor, Engr Seyi Makinde, and President Tinubu.
The former governor maintained that supporting a capable leader across party lines should not be seen as anti-party activity, but rather as a pragmatic approach to governance and national development. He emphasized that Nigeria’s progress should take precedence over partisan interests.
Fayose’s comments come amid ongoing internal divisions within the PDP, with differing opinions on how the party should position itself ahead of future political contests. While some party loyalists have criticized his stance as disloyal, others view it as a candid reflection of the challenges facing the opposition.
Political analysts say the remarks could further deepen conversations around leadership quality, party discipline, and ideological direction within Nigeria’s political landscape. They also note that such statements highlight the growing trend of cross-party endorsements driven by perceived performance and leadership effectiveness.
As reactions continue to trail Fayose’s position, the PDP leadership is yet to issue an official response, leaving room for continued debate among party members and the wider public.