L-R front row: Opeyemi Bamidele, Niyi Adebayo, Kayode Fayemi and Biodun Oyebanji
Kayode Fayemi, former governor of Ekiti, declared his support for the re-election bid of Biodun Oyebanji, his successor, during a stakeholders’ meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Iyin-Ekiti.
The meeting, which held on Sunday, was hosted by Niyi Adebayo, a former governor of the state.
Fayemi said the gathering provided an opportunity for party leaders and stakeholders to “reflect on the progress we have made, and exchange ideas on how to further strengthen our cohesion and impact”.
He added that the strength and longevity of the APC would hinge on protecting the systems and structures that embody the party’s progressive ideals.
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“Our party is more than a vehicle for political ambitions; it is a collective project anchored on shared values,” the ex-minister said.
“This is why it is important to prioritise and listen to the diverse views of our members at the ward and local levels, and to create room for honest dialogue so that no concern goes unaddressed and everyone feels involved.
“The strength of our party lies in our shared ideals and collective responsibility. As a progressive family, we can disagree without being disagreeable.”
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Fayemi commended Oyebanji for his “inclusive and visionary leadership” and said the governor has delivered remarkable progress.
He added that his support for Oyebanji’s second term bid would not prejudice the democratic right of others to contest the governorship seat.
“It was truly uplifting to witness the resolve of all stakeholders to support the governor’s agenda with sincerity and discipline, and to return to their wards to mobilise members, strengthen cohesion, and remain focused on securing victory for him in the October 27 governorship primary elections,” Fayemi added.
On August 10, Fayemi rejected claims attributed to Rotimi Amaechi, former minister of transportation, that they jointly founded the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition before broadening it to include other members.
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Amaechi made the claim during an X Spaces conversation on August 9.