Fayose Praises Tinubu’s Leadership, Rules Out APC Defection After Sallah Visit
Lagos, Nigeria – Former Governor of Ekiti State and a prominent chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ayo Fayose, has publicly expressed his belief in the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, affirming that he has always regarded Tinubu highly.
However, despite this commendation, Fayose remains resolute in his commitment to the PDP, stating he would never switch allegiance to the All Progressives Congress (APC) or any other party.
Fayose made these remarks while speaking to journalists shortly after paying a Sallah homage visit to President Tinubu in Lagos. He clarified that his visit to the President was purely personal.
The former governor emphasized the need to encourage President Tinubu in his efforts to steer the nation. “No one is saying it’s easy, but there’s no miracle that can turn around things overnight,” Fayose noted, acknowledging the inherent difficulties in national leadership.
He offered a comparison with the immediate past administration, suggesting the current situation, while challenging, merits recognition. “For the little the President has done, we must commend him.
I was a one-time critic of the last administration, but you cannot compare the situation now,” he said. “So, for me, I’m here to take the opportunity of his homecoming to visit him. And to encourage him to do more for Nigerians.”
When questioned about the motive behind his visit as a leading figure in the opposition party, Fayose reiterated his long-standing respect for Tinubu. “Well, even when I was in office as a PDP governor, sitting governor; I’ve always believed in his leadership,” he stated. He added that he did not hide his support for Tinubu even before he became President.
Fayose stressed that the role of leaders is to support the president and help the public understand the complexities and difficulties of leading the country. He pointed to recent economic measures as steps in the right direction. “An economy that is down, and today it’s being stabilised,” he remarked. “There’s a difference between things changing outrightly. There is no miracle. But stabilising the economy, stabilising the currency. And few courageous steps the President has taken and the achievements of this administration puts hopes in tomorrow for all of us.”
Despite his strong words of encouragement and belief in President Tinubu’s capacity, Fayose categorically dismissed any possibility of defecting to the ruling APC. He firmly declared his loyalty to the PDP, asserting that he would never leave the party for any other political platform.
Fayose’s visit and subsequent comments highlight a nuanced political dynamic, where personal respect and acknowledgment of leadership efforts can exist alongside unwavering party loyalty, even between figures from opposing camps.
