Former Ekiti State governor and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Ayodele Fayose, has declared that the party is “dead” in Ekiti State, describing its governorship aspirants as “deceiving themselves.”

Fayose commended the incumbent governor, Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC), predicting an overwhelming victory for him in the June 20, 2026, governorship election.

Speaking with journalists in Ado Ekiti on Monday, the former governor said the PDP no longer had a functional structure in the state.

“In the first place, where is the PDP in Ekiti? Honestly, where are the members? Where are the meetings being held? The party is totally moribund, just like what is happening at the national level,” he said.

He added, “If there was any sign of hope, one could build on it, but there is none. The PDP is dead in Ekiti. We have four aspirants in the party, but the saddest thing for anyone is self-deception. Tell me where you have seen any credible PDP gathering in this state. I am a major stakeholder, and most of those contesting today were brought up by me. I’m telling you, the party is dead in Ekiti—for now. I can’t predict what tomorrow holds.”

Despite his criticism, Fayose clarified that he remains a PDP member but would not hesitate to support Governor Oyebanji, whom he praised for his leadership.

“Oyebanji is doing well. I’ve said it many times and without apologies. I’m not a member of the APC and will never be, but I won’t condemn what is good simply because I belong to the opposition,” he stated.

“Oyebanji is the man Ekiti people want until 2030, and I support him. We must stand for the truth, and that’s what people know me for. Oyebanji remains our governor.”

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled the Ekiti governorship election for June 20, 2026. While Oyebanji is set to fly the APC flag, four aspirants — Dr. Wole Oluyede, Mrs. Funmi Ogun, Mr. Funso Ayeni, and Peter Obafemi — are vying for the PDP ticket.

Reacting to Fayose’s remarks, Ekiti PDP Chairman, Tunji Odeyemi, described the statement as “unfortunate” and dismissed the claim that the party was dead.

He said, “It is unfortunate that a former governor would make such comments about the party that made him governor twice. He is not God — the party will prove him wrong.

“Our four aspirants are credible individuals. The primary election will be transparent and fair, and we will produce a strong candidate to challenge the incumbent. I can assure you, the PDP will reclaim victory next year.”

The PDP, APC, and African Democratic Congress (ADC) are the major contenders in the upcoming Ekiti governorship election.