A People’s Democratic Party (PDP) leader in Ekiti State, Prince Funso Ayeni PhD, speaks to Journalists in Lagos on how to restore sanity in the party in Ekiti State. He also reviews the last two years of Governor Abiodun Oyebanji administration. Excerpts.
You’ve been vocal about the ongoing efforts of the PDP Caretaker Committee in Ekiti. Can you share your perspective on the current state of the party and how the CTC Chairman is performing?
Thank you for having me. The PDP Caretaker Committee Chairman in Ekiti State, alongside his team, is doing a remarkable job. They are in the process of realigning and sanitizing the party, which had been in disarray due to the actions of a two-term governor, Ayo Fayose. Fayose used the party platform along with the hard work of many devoted members to achieve his political ambitions, only to lead the party into defeat due to high level greed and poor leadership. The current CTC leadership is actively rebuilding the party from those ruins, and I must commend them for their commitment to restoring PDP’s credibility in Ekiti.
You’ve been critical of Fayose’s tactics and his claim of street credibility. Can you elaborate on this?
Fayose has always positioned himself as a “man of the people,” a supposed reservoir of influence, but in reality, he’s like a septic tank squatting in someone else’s premises. He is making noise in Ekiti markets, claiming street credibility, but the truth is that his antics are purely for personal gain. He even went so far as to adopt a candidate put forward by another political figure, someone who has shown modesty and restraint, unlike Fayose’s loud and desperate tactics to stay relevant. It’s all an act of self-preservation, not for the good of the party or the people of Ekiti.
There are also concerns about Fayose’s handling of public funds during his tenure. What’s your take on his recent claims?
Isn’t it ironic that the same people who, as governor, could not explain the bailout funds meant to offset salaries and pensions, are now on the front pages of newspapers claiming that Ekiti State doesn’t have the resources to buy him over? Ekiti people are well aware of his true nature. A man who betrayed even his own son’s political ambition for personal gain can betray anything. His recent claims are mere smokescreen, his track record speaks for itself, and it’s one of betrayal and deceit.
Let’s shift to the recent political endorsements. You’ve expressed concern about the premature adoption of Governor Oyebanji’s administration. Why is this troubling to you?
It’s concerning to see politicians, who themselves had failed to bring meaningful development to Ekiti during their time in office, now rushing to endorse a two-year-old administration. Some of these figures, whether former governors or ministers, had opportunities to positively impact the state but did little to nothing. The collapse of infrastructure and the lack of federal projects during their time in power are well documented. For them to now adopt an administration that is still in its infancy is more an indictment of their failures than a genuine endorsement. Accountability should be their priority, not wishful grandstanding.
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Why do you think there’s been a lack of accountability from leaders in Ekiti? Why are they remaining silent on these issues?
That’s a critical question. Many of these leaders are either pretending or misrepresenting basic courtesy as actual performance. There is speculation that some are on the government’s payroll, which may explain their reluctance to ask the tough questions. If they aren’t compromised, then why are they so timid about demanding accountability? Federal allocations come into the state regularly, and yet there’s little to show in terms of development. Local government administrations have been in place for over a year, and what have they achieved? These are the discussions we should be having, not lavishly praising a governor for political unity that comes at the expense of the state’s resources and the many needs of Ekiti people at this time
Looking ahead, what do you hope for Ekiti State?
Ekiti State is blessed with abundant human resources, and people who are intentional and sincere in their aspirations for the state. After 21 years of its creation, we need to revisit the original vision of the founding fathers. Ekiti, as the Fountain of Knowledge, must reflect that in its governance and development. Our focus should be on building a society where growth is not just seen in infrastructure but felt in the lives of the people. Sustainable development should be our goal, with human capital and innovation at the forefront.
What’s your take on the 2 years celebration of Gov BAO?
What exactly is in Ekiti to be celebrated at this time with the billions of Naira that came into the state? I believe the Gov should be allowed to focus and do what is expected of him. I believe his priorities are quite far from the expectations of the good people of Ekiti. Insecurity is big and largely remains an issue in Ekiti. we have nothing to show for our education in the last two years. Maybe you don’t know, but hundreds of sick people leave Ekiti for Ibadan and Lagos to get attended to. In my view, rather than celebrate Mr Gov on banners on the streets, he should do well for himself by self-evaluating and focusing more on delivering to the people rather than the few whose pensions have to be paid. The masses will determine his faith, not anyone or groups of individuals with selfish interest
Lastly, there seems to be a culture of celebration among political leaders, even as the people struggle. What are your thoughts on this?
It’s disheartening. Celebrating amid widespread poverty and hardship is never what the founding fathers of Ekiti State envisioned. Leadership must be about lifting people out of difficulty, not throwing parties while they suffer. We need to collaborate with stakeholders who have a genuine passion for growth, and who understand that Ekiti’s development must go beyond paying salaries. The people need hope and tangible progress, not empty celebrations.
Thank you for your time, Dr Ayeni. Your insights are thought-provoking and timely.
Thank you for having me. Ekiti’s future is bright, but it requires intentional effort and genuine leadership
