In what could be described as the beginning of a major crack in the political circle of Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, ahead of governorship election in 2026, a member of the state’s Waste Management Board, Wale Ade-Oba, has publicly dumped Oyebanji and pledged to work with Kayode Ojo in realisation of the latter’s gubernatorial ambition.

Alade-Oba, in a statement in Ado-Ekiti, yesterday, expressed his readiness to work with Ojo, the current University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) Pro-Chancellor, to develop the state after the first term of Oyebanji.

“I am writing to share with you a personal decision that may surprise many. As you know, I have been serving as an appointee under the current administration led by Governor Biodun Oyebanji. However, after much reflection, I have decided to join forces with Kayode Ojo, a leader with a vision for a better Ekiti,” he said.

The politician accused Oyebanji of underperformance despite what he described as the highest allocations to the state in the history of Ekiti governors.

He further said: “I believe the administration has not delivered meaningful development to many local councils, including mine Irepodun/Ifelodun. The governor’s office seems to revolve around just a few individuals, leaving many commissioners without meaningful assignments.

“Our party members are being overlooked and undervalued despite their hard work and dedication to the party’s success. Instead, opposition party members who did not contribute to our victory are being appointed to key positions, while our loyal supporters are being ignored.

“The governor is often out of the state pursuing unclear agendas, and this absence is felt in the lack of productivity under the current administration. I believe it’s time for a change.

“Kayode Ojo’s leadership style and vision for Ekiti resonate with me. I believe his administration would prioritise the needs of our people, recognise the efforts of our party members, and drive development across all local councils.”