Former Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, has dismissed claims that President Bola Tinubu is responsible for the deepening crisis in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), insisting that the party’s problems are self-inflicted and long overdue.
Fayose, speaking during an interview on Wednesday on Politics Today, a political affairs programme aired on Channels Television, described the PDP as a “sinking ship” and claimed he had no interest in helping to revive it.
“Let’s be honest. The PDP has reached a point of no return. I’m not one of those trying to resurrect it,” he stated.
Reacting to the recent wave of defections, including those of Governors Peter Mbah (Enugu) and Douye Diri (Bayelsa), Fayose argued that blaming the president for the exodus was misguided.
“It’s not about Tinubu. These governors are making political decisions that suit them. The president didn’t force anyone,” he said.
Fayose, a long-time member of the PDP and known for his unfiltered political commentary, suggested that those still holding leadership positions in the party were already contemplating their exit strategy.
“Most of the governors left in the PDP are on the fence,” he hinted without mentioning names.
According to Fayose, the PDP has failed to evolve or reposition itself as a credible opposition, especially after its defeat in the 2023 presidential election.
He maintained that leadership struggles, internal disunity, and a lack of clear direction have rendered the party irrelevant.
“The PDP is like an old vehicle with no engine. You can repaint it, but it won’t move,” he said.
While Fayose did not indicate whether he himself would join the APC or any other political platform, his comments strongly suggest he no longer sees the PDP as a vehicle for political relevance.
Observers believe his remarks may further discourage efforts within the party to rally support ahead of the 2027 general elections.
With the PDP losing grip and opposition forces splintered, the ruling APC appears to be consolidating its influence both through political outreach and, as some critics allege, behind-the-scenes pressure.
