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Akinwande Soji-Ojo
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, has debunked reports and insinuations in some quarters that he would be contesting the 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State.
The minister was reacting to the trending posters and flyers with his picture on some social media platforms, where he is positioned as a gubernatorial aspirant in the state, with the inscription ‘Take it Back.’
However, Alake, who is from Ikoro-Ekiti, in Ijero Local Government Area of Ekiti State, in a statement made availble to newmen on Monday by his Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, described the poster as fake, urging the people to disregard it.
The minister added that he is committed to the fulfilment of the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Tinubu to the country, especially in the solid minerals sector, stressing that he would not be distracted by the antics of some individuals.
Alake declared his support for Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, in his efforts at transforming the state, adding that he would continue to contribute to the development of Ekiti State.
“The general public is hereby informed that Dr. Dele Alake has no interest to run for governorship election in Ekiti State, either now or in the future.
“The poster in circulation does not have his approval as he does not know the people behind it. It is fake and should be discarded.
“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,” the statement read in part.