Fayose’s Brother Seeks Oni’s Support for Guber Ambition

Otunba Emmanuel Fayose, a gubernatorial aspirant from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is seeking the endorsement of Segun Oni, a former governor and influential political figure in Ekiti State, Nigeria.

This move is aimed at securing a crucial advantage in the 2026 Ekiti State governorship election, which operates on a unique off-cycle schedule separate from the country’s general elections.

By seeking Oni’s “blessings,” Fayose is effectively requesting his guidance, support, and backing, which carries significant weight due to Oni’s stature as a former governor and key PDP leader in the region. Oni’s influence is rooted in his extensive political experience, including his tenure as governor and his role as the PDP’s National Vice Chairman (South-West), making him a valuable ally in Ekiti’s complex political landscape.

Fayose’s approach is calculated to unite the PDP and leverage Oni’s support to bolster his candidacy against the incumbent governor, Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who is expected to seek re-election. Fayose has publicly expressed his intention to bring development and unity to Ekiti, while also drawing on a historical precedent – his brother, Ayodele Fayose, a former governor, had similarly sought and received Oni’s support during his successful political campaigns.

However, a potential rift or complexity has emerged within the Fayose family’s political alignment and the PDP’s strategy, as Ayodele Fayose has recently voiced support for Oyebanji. This development introduces an intriguing dynamic, as Emmanuel Fayose navigates the intricate web of relationships and alliances that define politics in Ekiti State.

By making this move as early as April 1, 2025, Fayose is laying the groundwork for his campaign well ahead of the 2026 election. In the context of Nigerian politics, securing the “blessings” of elder statesmen like Oni often translates to gaining access to their extensive political networks, resources, and voter base – all of which are essential for electoral success. This interaction highlights the blend of personal relationships, strategic alliances, and calculated maneuvering that characterizes political contests in Ekiti State.

As the 2026 election approaches, Fayose’s efforts to secure Oni’s support will be closely watched, as it may have significant implications for the outcome of the election and the future of Ekiti State’s political landscape. The endorsement of a respected figure like Oni could potentially sway undecided voters and provide Fayose with the momentum needed to challenge the incumbent governor and the APC’s stronghold on the state. Ultimately, the success of Fayose’s candidacy will depend on his ability to navigate the complex web of alliances, relationships, and interests that shape the political terrain of Ekiti State.