Fayose brother joins Ekiti 2026 race vows to restore prosperity

Otunba Emmanuel Fayose, younger brother of former Governor Ayodele Fayose, has declared his intention to contest the 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), promising to use his private sector experience to revive the state’s economy.

He made his ambition public during a grassroots tour of Ado-Ekiti and Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Areas as part of a wider consultation across all 16 local government areas of the state. Addressing PDP members and leaders, Emmanuel said his aim is to build unity in the party and win back the state from the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He said the tour was an opportunity to meet with party faithful and seek their support as he prepares for the party’s primary. He encouraged PDP members to work as a united team, warning that division would only strengthen the ruling APC.

While engaging supporters, he criticized the state government’s performance under Governor Biodun Oyebanji, saying that despite regular federal allocations, residents continue to face poverty and hardship. He dismissed recent endorsements of Oyebanji’s second-term bid, calling them empty gestures that would not sway voters.

Emmanuel Fayose also addressed concerns over his family connection to the former governor. He clarified that he should be judged by his own values and leadership style, not by the actions or opinions of his brother. He emphasized that they are different individuals and do not always share the same views or methods.

Party leaders at the events praised the aspirant for reaching out early and promoting unity within the PDP. The chairmen of the party in Ado-Ekiti and Irepodun/Ifelodun LGAs pledged to support efforts aimed at returning the PDP to power in the state.

With the June 2026 election drawing closer, Emmanuel Fayose’s entry into the race adds a new dimension to the unfolding political landscape in Ekiti.