Ahead of next year’s governorship election in Ekiti State, members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have kicked off the governorship ambition of Otunba Bisi Kolawole with a tour of Efon Alaaye.
Kolawole is a former Commissioner for Environment and chairman of the party.
Former Governor Ayodele Fayose, who led the consultation tour, told the Alaaye of Efon, Oba Emmanuel Aladejare, he endorsed Otunba Kolawole for the PDP governorship ticket because he was convinced he (Kolawole) has the required experience and competence to govern the state.
Kolawole from Efon Alaaye in the Ekiti Central Senatorial District, was a former House of Assembly member from 2007 to 2011 and Commissioner for Environment under the administration of Fayose between 2014 and 2018.
Fayose, who stormed the ancient town alongside other stalwarts, headed for the palace of Oba Aladejare, where Kolawole and his wife were presented to the monarch and his chiefs with prayers offered by the monarch for success of the aspirant.
The former governor, who described the contest for the PDP ticket as a family affair, called on members to unite and “see ourselves as one even in contest”.
He admonished supporters of Otunba Kolawole to avoid abusing any of the other aspirants, saying the campaign must be issue- based.
He said though he was sure Kolawole will emerge as the PDP candidate, he will support whoever wins the primary election.
The former governor moved to the venue of the event and announced the endorsement of Kolawole to the Efon Alaaye community, urging the community to support him.
Addressing the party members, who were mostly delegates, Kolawole said his aspiration was about the good of Ekiti.
“I am just a symbol of the party. That I have been picked and endorsed by our leader, Oshokomole calls for joy and I won’t betray this trust and confidence.
“However, even at that, no one will be imposed on anyone. There will still be free, fair and credible primary election,” he said.