By Law Ibitoye
Former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr John Kayode Fayemi, has advised members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to embrace elections as the most credible option in situations where consensus cannot be reached among aspirants ahead of the 2027 polls.
Fayemi gave the advice on Saturday during a stakeholders’ meeting held at his residence in Isan Ekiti. He cautioned aspirants against over-reliance on endorsements, stressing that while consensus remains desirable, elections provide a fair and democratic alternative when agreements fail.
He urged aspirants to engage party members at the grassroots and earn their mandate through transparent and credible participation, rather than seeking validation solely through elite endorsements.
The former governor also emphasized strict adherence to party principles and constitution, maintaining that performance should be the key criterion for candidate selection. He added that underperforming office holders should be rejected by party members.
Fayemi’s remarks were in response to concerns over some aspirants whose performances were considered below party expectations but had secured endorsements from certain leaders.
Earlier, APC stakeholders in the state reaffirmed their support for Fayemi, calling on him to leverage his experience to address internal disagreements and strengthen party unity.
The stakeholders stressed the need for cohesion and continuity within the party, particularly as the June 20 governorship election approaches. They also commended the performance of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, noting that his administration aligns with Fayemi’s developmental blueprint.
Recall that about five aspirants had shown interest in Ekiti North Senatorial District while about ten shown interest in Oye/Ikole federal constituency 1 and 2.
The meeting was attended by APC State Executive members led by Chairman Sola Elesin, Secretary Garba Arogundade, former Senator Ayo Arise, and other party leaders across Ekiti State.