On His Governorship Ambition In EKITI State
The 2026 Ekiti gubernatorial election is becoming increasingly interesting, as Otunba Emmanuel Fayose, the younger brother of the former governor of Ekiti State, has declared his intention to challenge the current governor of the State, Governor Abiodun Abayomi Oyebanji in the forthcoming election, which is slated for next year. The businessman and politician has been preparing for these upcoming elections for several years.
A few years ago, Otunba Emmanuel launched the Otunba Emmanuel Ajisafe Fayose Foundation in Afao Ekiti. This foundation has made significant contributions to the people of Ekiti and surrounding areas, offering free food, cash incentives, and scholarships for students from secondary school to university. Residents from Afao, Are, Iworoko, Orun, and Igbemo Ekiti have been major beneficiaries of this initiative.Since then, the people of the state has been begging and pleading for him to run for the No 1 seat in the state.
Otunba Emmanuel, who has spent most of his life in London, is 56 years old. He recently announced his candidacy during a media briefing in Ado-Ekiti, expressing strong confidence in securing the PDP ticket and defeating the incumbent Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He stated that his motivation for entering the race is to rebuild the state and restore public trust in governance.
Vowing to “rescue the Ekiti people” from what he termed failed APC leadership, Otunba criticized the current administration for alleged incompetence and neglect. “This is not just about politics for me; it is about the future of our state. Ekiti deserves a leader who understands the challenges facing the people and is ready to provide real solutions,” he said.
He pledged that his campaign would focus on key areas such as economic development, infrastructure renewal, and youth empowerment, emphasizing that his administration would prioritize the welfare of the people—unlike the current government, which he accused of neglecting public needs.
Fayose also called for unity within the PDP as the party prepares for the 2026 elections, urging members to come together and present a formidable front. “The people of Ekiti have seen enough of unfulfilled promises. They want a government that works for them, one that listens and delivers. The PDP can provide that leadership, but we must first get it right within the party,” he added.
In a significant development for the 2026 governorship election, former Governor of Ekiti State, Engineer Segun Oni, has endorsed Otunba Emmanuel Fayose (DOME), the leading gubernatorial aspirant in the state. The endorsement occurred during a warm reception at Engineer Oni’s home in Ifaki, Ido/Osi Local Government Area a few weeks ago. During the meeting, Engineer Oni praised Otunba Fayose’s vision for the development, unity, and progress of Ekiti State. He offered prayers for Fayose’s success in delivering a more prosperous, inclusive, and dynamic Ekiti.
This blessing marks a significant milestone in Otunba Fayose’s political journey, adding to the growing support he is receiving from leaders and the people of Ekiti State. As Ekiti prepares for a new chapter in its governance, Otunba Fayose remains committed to advancing the people’s interests, ensuring sustainable growth, and fostering a peaceful and prosperous state.
In expressing his gratitude, Otunba Fayose thanked Engineer Oni for his warm reception and described him as a highly respected statesman whose leadership and contributions to Ekiti State are deeply appreciated. He further expressed his desire to draw on Engineer Oni’s wisdom to help make Ekiti great again.
Otunba Emmanuel has stated that he will defeat the current governor with or without his brother’s support and remains dedicated to the progress and development of Ekiti State. With a vision for inclusive governance, economic empowerment, and infrastructural growth, he is committed to serving the people. His aspiration is rooted in a passion for good governance, transparency, and the upliftment of every Ekiti citizen.
Isaac Abimbade
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