Fayose blames Atiku, Tambuwal for PDP crisis, admits backing Tinubu

Former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose has blamed Atiku Abubakar and Senator Aminu Tambuwal for destroying the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Speaking on Channels Television's PoliticsToday on Friday, Fayose claimed the crisis started during the May 2022 primaries when Tambuwal withdrew and endorsed Atiku, a move that secured the ticket but angered other contenders. This led to the 'G5' rebellion led by Nyesom Wike, who demanded National Chairman Iyorchia Ayu's resignation to ensure southern representation. Ayu's refusal to step down after Atiku's northern victory—despite earlier agreement to do so—created a legitimacy deficit that still haunts the party. Fayose admitted he openly supported Bola Tinubu in 2023 and remains loyal to the APC despite not being a member. Regarding Rivers State, Fayose warned Governor Siminalayi Fubara to tread carefully, revealing he sat on the high table during Fubara's swearing-in and advised him not to betray Wike. He said he never expected the rift between Wike and Fubara to escalate. With the 2027 elections approaching, Fayose insists PDP must address these internal betrayals to remain relevant. Do you think the PDP can heal these divisions in time for 2027, or is the party permanently fractured?

SOURCE: https://www.channelstv.com/2026/01/09/atiku-tambuwal-destroyed-pdp-fayose/