Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State, Southwest Nigeria, has formally declared his intention to contest for president in 2023 on the platform of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.
He made the announcement in Abuja on Wednesday. Fayemi said when he becomes president, he would ensure youth empowerment.
Prior to the declaration, the governor visited a number of locations to meet with prominent traditional rulers, political actors, and statesmen.
Fayemi kickstarted the consultation in Owo, Ondo State, where he met with the Olowo of Owo, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye. Owo is renowned as the seat of progressive politics in the country, being the birth place of the defunct Action Group (AG) led by the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo
He is the fourth incumbent governor to announce his candidacy for the ruling APC’s presidential nomination.
Governors Yahaya Bello of Kogi, Ben Ayade of Cross River, and David Umahi of Ebonyi have all expressed interest in running for president on the party’s ticket.
Others in the race include Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, former Lagos Governor, Bola Tinubu, former Ogun governor and serving senator, Ibikunle Amosun, former Imo State Governor, Rochas Okorocha, the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, the Minister of State for Education, Emeka Nwajiuba, and the Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige.
It is believed that President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan, and former APC National Chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, will join the race, too.
The sale of APC expressions of interest and nomination forms is now open and will run through May 6, with the primary election taking place at the end of the month.
Despite the N100 million fee, several aspirants have already picked up the application forms.
John Olukayode Fayemi, is a Nigerian politician who is currently serving as the governor of Ekiti State and chairman of Nigeria Governors’ Forum in office since 16 October 2018. He previously served in office between 2010 and 2014 before losing re-election to Ayodele Fayose.