Former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi has firmly rejected what he described as “kangaroo endorsements” of aspirants ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging members of the All Progressives Congress to disregard such claims.

Speaking in Isan Ekiti while hosting party stakeholders, Fayemi condemned the actions of individuals he labelled as opportunists, accusing them of fueling division within the party through unauthorised endorsements.

In a move aimed at reinforcing internal discipline, he stressed that no aspirant should depend on backdoor endorsements, insisting that all contenders must go through transparent and credible primary elections.

While acknowledging that consensus remains a valid option if mutually agreed upon, Fayemi maintained that primaries would be unavoidable where such agreements fail. He added that any serious aspirant must be ready to test their popularity and acceptability among party members.

He also advised current office holders to focus on their performance in office rather than relying on political patronage, warning that failure to follow due process could lead to avoidable legal battles after the primaries.

Backing this stance, Ekiti APC Chairman Sola Elesin dismissed rumours of endorsements allegedly linked to Governor Biodun Oyebanji, describing them as false and driven by desperation. He assured members that the party would guarantee fairness, transparency, and a level playing field for all aspirants.

Party stakeholders at the meeting expressed confidence in the leadership of Fayemi and Governor Oyebanji, while also voicing concerns over growing internal divisions within the party as preparations for 2027 intensify.