Former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Ayodele Fayose, has urged Governor Biodun Oyebanji to disregard social media criticisms and what he described as “cheap blackmail” from those he called “players of morbid politics.”
Fayose made the call on Tuesday in Igbara Odo-Ekiti while commissioning the newly reconstructed 14-kilometre Igbara Odo–Ikogosi road, as part of events marking Oyebanji’s third anniversary in office.
Speaking before a large crowd, the former governor praised Oyebanji for uniting Ekiti leaders across party lines and steering the state toward progress. He noted that the recent All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary in the state had revealed some betrayers within Oyebanji’s camp, but urged the governor to forgive them in the spirit of political maturity.
“I am not here today to praise you, but to celebrate with you,” Fayose said. “Don’t be bothered about blackmailers and wailers barking at your backyard, especially those making negative narratives on the internet. The people of Ekiti are not moved by their rantings.”
Fayose commended the governor’s humility and inclusiveness, saying his achievements and style of governance had earned him popularity among the masses. He also recalled reconstructing the same road project 21 years ago, expressing delight that Oyebanji had further improved on it.
Predicting victory for Oyebanji in the 2026 governorship election, Fayose said: “In my mind, we have already concluded the voting. With what is happening here today, whoever is opposing you will be disgraced. I have no apology supporting you.”
In his response, Governor Oyebanji expressed satisfaction with the quality and speed of work on the project, attributing the success of his administration’s infrastructure drive to the economic reforms of President Bola Tinubu.
He explained that his administration’s road projects were designed not only to enhance transportation but also to open up communities for greater economic, tourism, and trade opportunities.
