It is both misleading and unfair to portray Dr. Oluwole Olumayokun Oluyede’s presence at Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s inauguration as evidence of political desperation, such a conclusion reflects an attempt to attach a negative political meaning to an event that can reasonably be understood as an expression of democratic maturity, civility and respect for the institutions of governance.First, attending an inauguration is not an admission of political weakness.Dr. Oluyede contested the governorship election under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party.
His participation in the democratic process does not prevent him from attending a state function or congratulating the governor on assuming office. In a democracy, political opponents can disagree at the ballot box while still recognising the importance of peaceful transitions, public institutions and the collective interests of the people. Secondly, courtesy must not be mistaken for surrender. Congratulating a political opponent is not the same as abandoning one’s political convictions. Neither is it evidence of desperation. It is entirely possible to maintain one’s political identity, hold a different vision for the state and still demonstrate respect for the office of governor.
The attempt to interpret every gesture of civility as a sign of weakness only encourages needless political hostility. Ekiti State deserves a political culture in which disagreement does not eliminate mutual respect.Thirdly, where is the evidence of political desperation?Serious political commentary must be supported by facts, not merely by assumptions about another person’s motives. What specific action at the inauguration demonstrates desperation?
What verifiable evidence establishes that Dr. Oluyede attended for any improper political purpose?Unless such evidence is provided, the accusation remains an interpretation rather than an established fact. Political opponents should be criticised on the basis of their demonstrable actions, policies and public statements, not on motives attributed to them without proof.Fourth, Ekiti needs constructive opposition, not manufactured controversy.
Democracy does not require the opposition to become hostile to every action of the government. A responsible opposition can criticise policies where necessary, offer alternatives and hold the administration accountable while supporting peace, stability and development.Dr. Oluyede’s reported appeal for unity and cooperation is consistent with that principle.
As reported by Vanguard and THISDAY newspaper on October 16 and 17, 2026, respectively, he congratulated Governor Oyebanji and urged political stakeholders to prioritise Ekiti’s development despite partisan differences.That public account provides a reasonable basis for viewing his attendance as an act of political courtesy rather than treating it as proof of desperation.Fifth, political rivalry should not take precedence over the welfare of the citizenry and the Ekiti people.
The people of Ekiti State need improved infrastructure, better healthcare, meaningful employment opportunities, economic progress and accountable governance. These are the issues that deserve sustained public debate.Whether one belongs to the APC, PDP or another political party, the interests of Ekiti people must remain paramount. Personal attacks and speculative accusations contribute little to solving the challenges confronting ordinary citizens.
OUR POSITION IS CLEAR
Dr. Oluwole Olumayokun Oluyede’s attendance at Governor Oyebanji’s inauguration does not, by itself, establish political desperation. It is entirely possible to attend a public ceremony, extend congratulations to an elected governor and remain committed to one’s own political principles.It is an established fact that Comrade Idowu Afuye is a well known political attention seeker and he’s entitled to his political opinion, but his opinion cannot be presented as conclusive proof of another person’s intentions.
Let the debate be about policies, performance, accountability and the future of Ekiti State. Let political disagreements be settled through reasoned arguments and democratic engagement, not through the distortion of ordinary acts of courtesy.Ekiti belongs to all of us. Democracy is strengthened when political differences coexist with mutual respect.
The ultimate test of every political actor is not whom they greet at an inauguration, but what they stand for and what they contribute to the progress of the people.Ekiti deserves facts, fairness and responsible political discourse and not sensational conclusions unsupported by sufficient evidence as opined by Idowu Afuye.PP; Olanrewaju Olomola OPARHA (Oluyede Progressive) media team.
