- Boluwatife Fayose said his decision to join the APC was influenced by Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s leadership, not his father
- He emerged as the APC consensus candidate for Ekiti State House of Assembly, Irepodun/Ifelodun II
- He urged party unity ahead of Ekiti’s crucial June 20 governorship election
Boluwatife Fayose, the son of former Ekiti State governor Ayodele Fayose, has stated that his decision to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) was motivated by his admiration for the leadership style of the current Ekiti State governor, Biodun Oyebanji, rather than any influence from his father.
Boluwatife made the clarification while addressing party leaders and members in Irepodun/Ifelodun State Constituency II after he was confirmed as the APC’s consensus candidate for the Ekiti State House of Assembly seat representing the constituency. The meeting took place in Iworoko-Ekiti, where party stakeholders gathered to formally introduce him to local members.
His emergence as the party’s consensus candidate followed a decision by APC leaders to zone the Assembly ticket for the constituency to Afao Ward. Party leaders from the ward subsequently presented Boluwatife to stakeholders and members of the constituency during the gathering.
Speaking at the meeting, Boluwatife expressed gratitude to the party leadership and grassroots members for the confidence reposed in him. He also conveyed greetings from his father, noting that although the former governor is not a member of the APC, he sent his goodwill to those present.
Addressing speculation surrounding his political move, Boluwatife stressed that joining the ruling party was a personal decision based on his observation of Governor Oyebanji’s leadership qualities and governance approach.
According to him, the governor’s character and dedication to the welfare of Ekiti residents played a significant role in shaping his political choice.
“It is because of the good character of Governor Oyebanji and his love for the people that attracted me to the APC,” Boluwatife said. “The most important thing on my mind right now is the forthcoming governorship election, and that is our main focus.”
He also assured party members that he would work collaboratively with political stakeholders and constituents if elected, pledging to promote inclusiveness and effective representation.
Boluwatife further emphasised the importance of unity within the party ahead of the state’s upcoming governorship election scheduled for June 20, describing the poll as crucial for the political future of the state and the party.
“I will make sure everybody is carried along and that nobody is left behind,” he said. “But the most important thing right now is the June 20 governorship election, because without that, every other thing means nothing.”
Political observers say Boluwatife’s emergence as the APC consensus candidate reflects ongoing realignments in Ekiti’s political landscape as parties prepare for key electoral contests in the state.