Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Ekiti State, Wole Oluyede, has said that former governor, Ayodele Fayose made a wrong choice when he threw his weight behind Governor Biodun Oyebanji.
Oluyede said this during an interactive session with journalists in Ado-Ekiti, it was reported.
He dismissed claims that Fayose has the political strength to determine the outcome of the forthcoming governorship election.
However, the PDP chieftain said while Fayose was entitled to support any candidate of his choice, he made a wrong political judgment.
He says endorsements should be on the basis of measurable achievements and governance outcomes, saying the current administration has failed to meet expectations in key areas especially security and infrastructure.
“I respect Fayose and his right to support whoever he wishes. There is nothing personal between us. But if you ask me, he has taken the wrong decision by supporting this government,” Oluyede stated.
The governorship hopeful said he was surprised that Fayose would endorse the administration in spite of what he termed glaring deficiencies in governance.
“I am disappointed because it means the bar for supporting a government has been set very low. “If you look at the realities on the ground, especially in security and public service delivery, there is little basis for such an endorsement,” he said.
But Oluyede ruled out any confrontation with the former governor over his political position, saying Fayose is entitled to his convictions just as others are entitled to theirs.
He said the forthcoming governorship election would be decided by the people of Ekiti State and not endorsements by political leaders.
“People will decide. This election will not be won on endorsements or political statements. “Ekiti people are intelligent and they will judge those seeking their mandate on their performance,” he said.
The PDP candidate also seized the opportunity to express worry about the security situation in the state, saying many residents now live in fear because of the rising criminal activities.
