Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has declared that he will "teach" Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State a political lesson ahead of the 2027 general elections, accusing him of destroying the South-West structure of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and betraying political trust .
Fayose made the remarks during an interview on Channels Television, where he also used a Yoruba proverb, alleging that Makinde has "stolen the land of the deities" and warning that the deities would eventually reclaim their land .
'I'm Not a Politician to Be Taken for Granted'
Fayose, known for his combative political style, made it clear that respect is a key factor in his political relationships. "If you respect me, you will get all my values and support, but if you disrespect me, you will get the downside of Fayose. I'm not a politician that is taken for granted," he stated .
The former governor accused Makinde of taking over his political structure in the region and weakening the PDP. "Makinde destroyed the South West Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and took my structure. When we are in politics, we are meant to be fair," Fayose said .
Makinde's Presidential Ambition Sparks Dispute
A key point of contention appears to be Makinde's declaration of interest in contesting the presidency. While Fayose acknowledged Makinde's right to run, he argued that political trust should not be betrayed in the process .
"Declaring for presidency was his undoing. He has the right to contest for president but we don't betray trust. Elections are not far away again. We will get there," Fayose added .
Fayose also suggested that he will not be alone in the political battle, stating that he would join forces with the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, and others aligned against Makinde in the next election cycle .
Background of Political Tensions
The rift between the two PDP chieftains has deepened following Fayose's earlier accusations that Makinde orchestrated the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in Oyo State to blackmail President Bola Tinubu—claims the Oyo State Government described as "reckless" and "politically dangerous" .
The South-West PDP had previously condemned Fayose's comments on the security incident, questioning his political morality and accusing him of "glaring double standards" on insecurity, particularly given that Fayose has been openly campaigning for the re-election of Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the APC while still claiming PDP leadership in Ekiti .
Governor Makinde's administration responded to Fayose's earlier kidnap allegations by stating that the former governor "needs prayers" and that his conduct showed "bitterness and hostility" that could undermine security efforts .
2027 Elections Looming
As political alignments continue ahead of the 2027 elections, Fayose's latest comments signal escalating tensions within the opposition party in the South-West. The former governor's vow to work against Makinde suggests that internal PDP disputes could shape the region's political dynamics in the coming election cycle .
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