TheCable

Ayodele Fayose, former governor of Ekiti, has unveiled Bisi Kolawole, chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, as his preferred candidate for the 2022 governorship election.

According to NAN, Fayose formally presented Kolawole to his supporters in the state on Tuesday.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, Fayose described Kolawole as a bridge builder who will usher in a better future for Ekiti and the PDP.

He commended two former house of representatives members, Ayodeji Oladimeji and Segun Adekola, for stepping down for Kolawole to allow peace to reign, saying “this is a mark of respect for my leadership”.

Fayose, however, added that whoever wins the PDP governorship primary in Ekiti will have his support.

“The man you have come to honour, Bisi Kolawole, is our collective project. I made him my preferred candidate in the overall interest of our party, but this does not foreclose due process of nomination in PDP,” he said.

“PDP is what we are supporting; it is what we are marketing. And all we want is a winner. We have started consultations and I know that victory is sure for us.”

Kolawole, in his remarks, assured party members that he will not take advantage of his position, adding that he will ensure that the primary is free and fair.

“This endorsement does not mean an imposition; that Fayose is endorsing me only shows that I have been adopted by his supporters and admirers,” he said.

“I am going to make sure we have free and fair primary. I won’t take advantage of my position. I am going to become the candidate through popular votes.

“I am sure that this is not going to be an impossible task. Above all, I will not betray Fayose who is our leader.”