IN recent weeks, the political landscape has been abuzz with speculation surrounding the future of Dr. Kayode Fayemi within the All Progressives Congress (APC). Rumours of his defection following the exit of Malam Nasir el Rufai from APC have circulated widely to the point where he had to formally restate that he’s not leaving APC even if the party needs to work on issues of inclusion and internal democracy, leading many to misconstrue his intentions. However, as Dr. Fayemi himself has articulated, his commitment to the APC remains unwavering. He is not just a card-carrying member; he is a foundational pillar of the party – one of the eleven governors from ACN, ANPP, CPC and APGA that brought the party to life and he remains dedicated to its founding principles and the ideals.
At the heart of his recent statements lies a compelling call for inclusion – a topic that resonates deeply within the fabric of Nigerian politics. Dr. Fayemi’s assertion is not merely a personal plea; it is a clarion call for a more representative and equitable government. He highlights a crucial concern that has long been overlooked: the need for genuine representation of all regions and states in appointments made by the central government.
At a time when political cohesion is crucial for national development, Dr. Kayode Fayemi’s recent statements have illuminated a pressing issue within the All Progressives Congress (APC): the urgent need for genuine inclusion in governance. This is not the first time he has done this. In his keynote address to the APC Assembly in Lagos last October 3, 2024 and during his interview with Seun Okinbaloye on February 6, 2025, Fayemi articulated a growing disconnection between the party’s leadership and the grassroots, particularly in the context of key appointments and feedback mechanisms.
His concern is not born out of personal grievance but stems from a broader recognition of the implications these appointments have for party unity and effectiveness. Consider the appointments made since President Tinubu came into office: granted some of the high-profile positions from Ekiti are professional roles, not political ones and we must thank the President for that. For example, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Femi Oluyede and the EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede are both from Ikere Ekiti. Yet these are professionals who are not necessarily known to the people who worked for President Tinubu’s victory on the ground, brilliant as they may both be in their areas of expertise.
It is important to note that Ekiti not only supported Asiwaju Tinubu but also delivered the second highest percentage of votes for him in the Southwest, only after Ondo State.
Ironically, many significant appointments supposedly ascribed to Ekiti went to individuals from Lagos, who, despite having origins in Ekiti, lack meaningful connections with local political leaders and grassroots party members. This raises significant questions about the representation of states that have shown unwavering support for the party. For example, Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals, has not engaged with Ekiti’s political landscape since leaving Christ’s School over fifty years ago. Similarly, appointees like Oye Ojo in the Federal Housing Authority (FHA), Osanipin in the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), and Seun Faleye in the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) were filled by individuals who, despite their qualifications, do not represent the local political dynamics or the interests of the people. Apart from Senator Dayo Adeyeye, whose ties to local Ekiti politics is well-established, he would face challenges with the party membership due to his departure since 2006 and return only in 2018. This situation exemplifies the consequences of failing to consult local leaders when making important decisions.
This situation raises a critical question: can the APC thrive in an environment where local voices are silenced? Dr. Fayemi’s stance is not merely a strategic political play; it is a necessary call for the party to re-evaluate its approach to governance. If the leadership continues to prioritize party outsiders over local representation, it risks alienating its base and jeopardizing future electoral success.
Moreover, the appointments of local party leaders like Wumi Ogunlola could have been better handled rather than appoint her into two positions at the same time as both a Commissioner for the Revenue Mobilization and Fiscal Commission (RMFAC) and a member of the Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Equally, the controversial withdrawal of appointments for others, such as Barrister Dele Agbede and Mr. Jide Arowosafe—who were announced as Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in INEC and Managing Director of NIRSAL, respectively—reflect a troubling trend that may further deepen the feeling that local leaders don’t matter. The dissatisfaction among local leaders is palpable, and ignoring these sentiments could lead to a fracturing of party loyalty across states.
Dr. Fayemi’s call for inclusion is fundamentally a plea for consultation with local leaders who understand the needs and aspirations of their constituents. The lack of engagement with prominent figures in Ekiti, such as Otunba Niyi Adebayo, the first executive Governor of the state and Dr. Fayemi, the immediate past Governor is breeding resentment among their large army of followers in the state. I doubt if even the current governor, Governor Biodun Oyebanji knew anything about these appointments until they were announced. Yet he is the leader of the party in the State. This suggests a troubling disconnect in decision-making that could undermine the party’s electoral base. The same applies to other states in the Southwest, if not the entire country. From information available to me, none of the leaders in Ogun State—Aremo Osoba, Governors Daniel and Amosun or even the current Governor was aware of any of the three or four ministerial appointees from Ogun, yet Senator Yayi from Lagos had a nominee. Moreover, it’s even unclear whether even Governor Sanwo-Olu had any insight into how the Lagos nominees were selected, let alone the leaders in Oyo and Ondo indicating that this pattern extends beyond Ekiti.
It is important to acknowledge that, in a presidential system, the President has the prerogative to appoint whomever he chooses into his government. However, when these decisions are made without consultation, it runs the risk of backlash. The failure to engage local leaders in the appointment process can lead to alienation and dissatisfaction among the party’s base, undermining the very support that helped secure electoral victories. Not even under President Buhari’s government were local considerations jettisoned in this manner.
For those critics who suggest that Dr. Fayemi’s concerns stem from being overlooked by the President, one must ask: is ignoring him fair or beneficial for the country, especially given his significant contributions to the President’s victory not only in Ekiti but also in Rivers and Oyo States apart from stepping down for him? Those familiar with the political landscape understand the weight of his influence, particularly in the two states mentioned and the President knew what he did for him too. The reality is that sidelining Fayemi represents a loss for both the President and the nation, not just for him.
Dr Seun Abayomi, a public affairs analyst, sent this from Ado Ekiti, Nigeria.
Dr. Fayemi has been blessed with opportunities and is far from being a politician without a platform. How many in his political cohort have secured prestigious international academic positions? Few can maintain the level of influence and goodwill he enjoys even two years after leaving office, as demonstrated by the distinguished guests who honored him at his recent 60th birthday celebration.
He has little to lose, even if he adopts a “siddon look” approach to politics. His state is politically stable, likely one of the few where there is no animosity between a sitting governor and a predecessor. However, will such a passive stance help grow the party? I doubt it. If the so-called “Alleluia choir” of sycophants seeks nothing more than the calm of a graveyard instead of heeding the call for reason, then Dr. Fayemi is not their issue. They should focus their attention on others who have chosen to remain silent waiting for the opportune time to strike.
In conclusion, Dr. Kayode Fayemi’s push for inclusion is not just about fair representation; it is about fostering a cohesive and effective governance structure that resonates with the people. The APC must heed this call to ensure that every region is adequately represented and that local leaders are consulted in decision-making processes. Only through genuine inclusion can the party strengthen its foundations and secure a prosperous future for all Nigerians.
Dr Seun Abayomi, a public affairs analyst, sent this from Ado Ekiti, Nigeria.
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