Solid minerals minister Dele Alake rules himself out of Ekiti State gubernatorial race

NIGERIA'S minister of solid minerals Dele Alake has disassociated himself from plans to run for the governorship of his native Ekiti State claiming that he had nothing to do with posters touting him as a potential gubernatorial candidate.

Over the last week, posters and flyers have emerged on numerous social media platforms in which Mr Alake is positioned as a gubernatorial aspirant with the slogan Take it Back used next to his picture. This has led to speculation that the minister would be contesting the 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State under the platform of the All Progressive Congress (APC).

However, Alake, who hails from Ikoro-Ekiti, in Ijero Local Government Area of the state, described the poster as fake, urging people to disregard it. His spokesman added that the minister is committed to the fulfilment of the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Tinubu for the country, especially in the solid mineral sector and would not be distracted by the antics of some individuals.

Mr Alake added: "I have no interest to run for governorship election in Ekiti State, either now or in the future. The poster in circulation does not have my approval as I do not know the people behind it. It is fake and should be discarded.

In addition, Mt Alake declared his support to the incumbent state governor, Biodun Oyebanji in his efforts at transforming the state. He added that he would continue to contribute to the development of Ekiti State.

Mr Alake's spokesman, said: “It is unconscionable that the honourable minister, who is busy with the onerous task of reforming and revamping the solid minerals sector in Nigeria, a responsibility committed to him by President Bola Tinubu will leave that to be plotting for an election in Ekiti State.  The honourable minister is a busy man, working tirelessly on how to make the solid minerals sector a major revenue earner for the country and for the sector to create thousands of high paying jobs for Nigerians.

“Dr. Dele Alake is committed to his current national assignment. He is working to transform the solid minerals sector to justify the absolute confidence reposed in him by President Bola Tinubu.

“We want to state clearly that the honourable minister will not be distracted by the antics of disgruntled elements. He supports the current administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji in Ekiti and as a proud son of the soil, Dr Alake will continue to contribute to the growth and progress of Ekiti State.”