Fayose Blames Brother for Weakening PDP in Ekiti, Asserts He Has No Intent to Run for Political Office

 

...My advocacy for good governance is driven by love for Ekiti's development 

...I have no grudges against the government; I just want things done correctly

...My brother blocked me for two years during his administration

Media personality and social commentator Prince Isaac Fayose has clarified that his recent criticisms of governance in Ekiti are not politically motivated or in support of any political candidate. He stated that he has no interest in running for office but cares deeply about how the state is managed.

“I have no political ambition, now or at any time, and I am not supporting anyone for governor. I simply love what I do, but Ekiti must be properly developed,” he emphasized.

The businessman made this statement while responding to questions on Let's Talk, an interactive show on Trumpeters TV, an online television platform on Facebook. Prince Fayose highlighted that the poor condition of the roads leading into Ekiti will make it difficult for any government’s development policy to have a noticeable impact or attract investors to the state.

"How can development thrive when access to Ekiti is so difficult? What is the point of the development the government claims to be doing if people, tourists, or investors cannot even access the state smoothly? All roads leading into Ekiti are in terrible condition. Is it only the people living there who are meant to benefit from the government’s initiatives? For instance, if the government wants to promote tourism at Ikogosi, how can they expect people to visit if the roads are this bad?” he asked.

Fayose criticized Ekiti’s political officeholders, including senators, representatives, and even the state’s minister, for neglecting infrastructure. “It’s a shame that these people in government are not concerned about the roads. They sit there in Abuja and cannot do anything but keep saying it's federal roads. They should be embarrassed,” he stated.

Fayose expressed frustration over the state’s Agro-Allied Cargo Airport, which, despite substantial public funds invested, has not become operational. “I am counting down the 60 days the government gave me for the airport to start functioning. A lot of public funds went into that project, yet it has remained non-functional for two years after it was commissioned.

"Ekiti is an agrarian state; the government should encourage mechanized farming and ensure the airport is operational. This way, we could export agricultural products—imagine seeing Ekiti vegetables in London,” he said.

When asked about former governors already endorsing Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for a second term, Prince Fayose noted that it is premature. “The governor has only been in office for two years, and I don’t feel he has delivered at an optimal level. Ekiti’s allocations are higher than they used to be, but for me, the projects do not match the state’s present resources,” he observed.

Fayose went on to criticize his brother, former governor Ayodele Fayose, for what he called the “inactive state” of the opposition PDP in Ekiti. He remarked, "I think it is wicked and wrong when you assist another party to make the one you belong to ineffective. My brother rendered the PDP useless by supporting BAO, a governor from a supposed opposition to his own party."

Responding to critics who claimed he benefited from the government when his brother was governor, Prince Fayose offered a 50 million naira reward to anyone who could prove this rumour. He said, "I didn’t get anything from my brother during his time as governor. He even blocked me completely for two years, so I couldn’t even talk to him on the phone. Those saying otherwise don’t know what they’re talking about."

He also urged the governor to implement the new minimum wage as soon as possible, pointing out that workers’ salaries are insufficient to meet basic needs. Fayose criticized the Ekiti State House of Assembly members for planning a trip to Canada, suggesting they consider visiting China instead to learn about practical industrialization models that could benefit Ekiti.

"The Assembly members claim they’re not using government funds for the trip, but the fact that they sought government approval and planned to travel with their spouses raises questions. If they’re not using state money, why involve the government at all? I doubt any of them has 20 million naira in their account to fund such expenses,” Fayose concluded.

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#OPINION: Bunmi Tunji-Ojo’s Abandonment Of Ondo State Is A Disservice

 

Hon. Bunmi Tunji-Ojo’s prolonged and conspicuous absence from Ondo State since his appointment as Nigeria’s Minister of Interior is an affront to the people of the State who are in dire need of infrastructural improvements, security interventions, and economic opportunities. As the representative of Ondo State in the Federal Executive Council (FEC), BTO’s indifference to the very state he is meant to champion is nothing short of a betrayal to his constituency.

With Ondo State consistently grappling with critical issues, it would seem natural that a Minister hailing from the state and entrusted with a pivotal portfolio like the Ministry of Interior would seize every opportunity to uplift his people. Yet, Tunji-Ojo appears to be either unwilling or unable to bring about tangible progress for Ondo State, despite his supposed influence within the Nigerian Presidency. His silence and physical absence from the state he is meant to advocate for signal a gross disregard for his responsibilities.

A Minister representing a state at the federal level has a dual responsibility: to serve the nation and, immeasurably, to ensure his immediate constituents’ needs are met. However, Hon. Tunji-Ojo’s failure to visit Ondo since assuming office conveys an alarming detachment. By failing to remain in touch with the realities on the ground, he is effectively turning his back on the very people whose welfare are entrusted to him. One would be hopeful that with his presence in Tinubu’s administration, federal influence would finally translate to development within Ondo. Yet, to date, not a single meaningful project has been facilitated by him in the state, an appalling record that speaks volumes about his priorities and a complete misalignment with the pressing needs of Ondo people.

By Wándé T. Àjàyí, Akure, Ondo State.

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Ondo PDP Allege Aiyedatiwa Of Gifting Ganduje N31B Contract, As Citizen's Discontent Grows

 Criticisms of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration have intensified, with rising concerns from various quarters that his tenure has not met the expectations of the electorate, as the gubernatorial election fast approaches. Many citizens claim that the hardships experienced by residents reflect ineffective governance, fueling a wave of dissatisfaction across the state.

In a statement released by political analyst and Publicity Secretary of the People's Democratic Party ((PDP), Hon. Kennedy Ikantu Peretei, to newsmen on Thursday morning, he highlighted growing discontent among residents. Initially, the All Progressives Congress (APC) appeared confident of an easy victory for Aiyedatiwa, who assumed office less than a year ago. However, recent interactions on the campaign trail suggest a more complex reality, with citizens confronting the administration over unmet promises and economic hardships. 

Peretei argue that rising poverty levels and a lack of tangible economic reforms have weakened Aiyedatiwa’s appeal. "The comfort of the offices from where they made proclamations about being 'Lucky' contrasts starkly with the reality on the streets," Peretei noted, alluding to the unmet basic needs of citizens, such as access to food and employment. He reported that from campaign events, residents have openly expressed frustration over the current administration's inability to address their concerns. One of the administration’s most controversial promises—a minimum wage hike to N73,000—remains unimplemented. Reports indicate that technical discussions on the proposal stalled, leading some to question the feasibility of the promise. "When the minimum wage is implemented, they will need wheelbarrows to carry their salaries," claimed a statement from the governor’s office, drawing criticism from citizens who felt mocked rather than reassured. 

Among the most contentious issues is the anticipated 100% hike in tuition fees at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, which officials have reportedly delayed to avoid election-related backlash. While the measure has not yet been approved, speculation about its potential impact has raised alarm among students and parents, who fear that the increase would lead to high dropout rates and place additional financial strain on families. Further fueling political tensions are statements from APC national chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, who referenced plans to implement a “template” for success in Ondo akin to that used in Edo State, though he also denied any intentions to rig the election. Ganduje’s alignment with Aiyedatiwa's administration has come under scrutiny, particularly following reports that he secured a N31 billion contract for a Judiciary Complex in Akure. Peretei claims that Ganduje’s support may be more rooted in personal gains than in promoting effective governance. 

In a move aimed at planning rigging, Amotekun Corps Commandant Adetunji Adeleye was reportedly appointed to lead a 25-member security team for the APC campaign. However, the appointment has sparked debate, with opponents questioning the involvement of a security chief in campaign activities. A spokesperson for Aiyedatiwa’s campaign has denied the report, though critics argue the perceived contradiction weakens the administration's credibility. With election day approaching, Governor Aiyedatiwa faces an uphill battle in regaining the trust of voters increasingly vocal about their dissatisfaction. The outcome of the November 16 election may hinge on whether the APC can effectively address concerns and reassure the public.

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