By Obinna Ejianya
Former Aviation Minister, former husband of Precious Chikwendu and former People’s Democratic Party stalwart, David Oluwafemi Adewunmi Abdulateef Fani-Kayode popularly known as FFK, has lately been made a victim of “Ashawo no be work” syndrome, after he was used and dumped by camp Jagaban, @officialABAT.
Femi Fani-Kayode
Femi Fani Kayode @realFFK is a prominent Nigerian politician and lawyer who has been actively involved in the country’s political landscape for several decades. Born into a political family, Fani Kayode’s interest in politics was ignited from an early age. Over the years, he has held various political positions and has been a vocal advocate for the party he later dumped and made caricatures of, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Prior to the 2023 Presidential election, Fani Kayode had made some malicious statements depicting hatred for Tinubu and Buhari. He had been an ardent critic of Tinubu, President Muhammadu Buhari, and the APC. FFK had consistently expressed his disdain for their policies and leadership styles, making derogatory remarks and malicious statements that fueled his reputation as an anti-APC figure. Many found it perplexing when he suddenly switched sides and began supporting the very people he had criticized vehemently.
FFK’s overbearing sudden support for Tinubu fetched him the position of the Director, New Media sub-committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council.
During the 2023 presidential campaign, Fani Kayode played a significant role that had far-reaching consequences. Contrary to the expectations of his former party and followers, he openly worked against his PDP allies and strangely threw his support behind Bola Tinubu, a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) that he abhorred vehemently. This move was met with shock and disappointment from his former party members, followers and allies, as they viewed it as a betrayal of their cause and virtues.
Fani Kayode’s decision to support Tinubu was not without its motivations. He stepped on toes and worked against his PDP party allies, working for Tinubu obviously in expectation of favour. Rumours circulated that he believed aligning himself with Tinubu’s camp would increase his chances of securing a political position should Tinubu emerge as the new president. However, this move came with consequences, as it strained his relationship with his party, the PDP, and alienated many of his supporters who had worked tirelessly for the party’s success.
Before the 2023 Presidential election campaign, Fani Kayode made several controversial statements that painted him as a staunch opponent of Tinubu and Buhari. His words were filled with disdain and anger towards the two political figures, and he spared no effort in expressing his grievances. These statements further solidified his anti-Tinubu and anti-APC stance, making his subsequent support for Tinubu all the more surprising.
While reacting to a circulating resurfaced essay he wrote against Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Presidential Candidate of the APC party, some years ago, FFK took to his notorious social media account to defend himself.
Fani-Kayode wrote in a tweet, “Circulating essays I wrote years ago against @officialABAT changes nothing. I was in People’s Pigs Party then but saw the light and left the swine. Been in APC since & have fought for Asiwaju to win with every fibre of my being. Those that are unhappy with that can drop dead.”
Critics of FFK’s infamous path retorted and accused him of speaking from both sides and lacking integrity, especially on political issues.
Femi Fani Kayode’s sudden wholehearted endorsement of Tinubu and Shettima’s candidacy raised eyebrows and left many questioning his values, conscience, principles and motivations as a person, in spite of political interests.
Fani Kayode, a professed Christian, had been vocal in his opposition to such a ticket, citing concerns over religious balance and inclusivity. FFK found a reason to support Tinubu and Shettima’s Muslim-Muslim ticket as APC’s presidential and vice presidential candidates.
This was one of the most puzzling aspects of Fani Kayode’s support for Tinubu in 2023, but as some of his critics said, he was blinded by over-ambitious self-centeredness.
Following the INEC’s declaration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the winner of the 2023 Presidential Election and his inauguration, there was heightened anticipation for high political and ministerial appointments.
Political stakeholders and party loyalists eagerly awaited the announcement of key positions, including ministerial roles. Fani Kayode, given his active involvement in the campaign and his support for Tinubu, was among those expected to secure a ministerial appointment, or at least a member of President Tinubu’s kitchen cabinet.
But, as some earlier said, “Bola Tinubu never forgets the mosquito that bit him at night when ‘NEPA took light;’ he would always identify the mosquito in the daytime and give it a requital blast.”
Following the announcement of ministerial appointments that excluded FFK, speculations and rumours began to circulate regarding Fani Kayode’s exclusion from the “Well Done my good servants” list. Some believed that his past criticism of Tinubu and the APC had played a significant role in his omission. Others speculated that his decision to support Tinubu was viewed as opportunistic and insincere, leading to a loss of trust among key decision-makers. These speculations added fuel to the already intense scrutiny surrounding his exclusion.
Throughout his political career, Fani Kayode has held various political appointments. He has served as a Minister of Culture and Tourism, Minister of Aviation, and Minister of Culture and National Orientation. These appointments showcased his versatility and expertise in different areas of governance. However, his desolation and exclusion from a ministerial appointment in the new government raised questions about his future prospects and political relevance.
Several factors may have contributed to Fani Kayode’s exclusion from ministerial appointments. His history of criticism towards Tinubu and the APC could have eroded trust and confidence in his loyalty. Additionally, his last-minute switch of allegiance and support for Tinubu may have been seen as a calculated move for personal gain, rather than a genuine belief in Tinubu’s leadership. These factors, combined with the need for a cohesive and united government, may have led to his exclusion.
Fani Kayode’s exclusion from ministerial appointments is likely to have a profound impact on his political career. It not only tarnishes his reputation as a loyal party member but also raises questions about his ability to navigate the complex dynamics of Nigerian politics. His supporters may feel disillusioned by his actions and view his exclusion as a betrayal of their trust. Moving forward, Fani Kayode will need to strategize and rebuild his political capital to remain relevant in the ever-changing political landscape in Nigeria.
Unsurprisingly, Fani Kayode’s exclusion from political and ministerial appointments elicited mixed reactions from both his supporters and critics. While members of opposition parties mocked Fani Kayode, his loyal supporters expressed disappointment and frustration, viewing his exclusion as a missed opportunity to contribute to the development of the country. On the other hand, his critics saw it as a just outcome, given his history of controversial statements and apparent opportunism. The reactions from both camps highlight the polarizing nature of Fani Kayode’s political career.
The future prospects for Femi Fani Kayode
After being silent for a while, over political events that have set him incognito, Fani Kayode sent a message to congratulate those who made it to the ministerial list saying that they were excellent choices of President Tinubu.
Despite the setback of his exclusion, Femi Fani Kayode’s future prospects in Nigerian politics are not entirely bleak. He has proven himself to be a resilient and resourceful politician, capable of bouncing back from setbacks. To regain trust and credibility, he will need to engage in strategic alliances, rebuild bridges with his party, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to the ideals he claims to uphold. The future remains uncertain, but Fani Kayode’s political acumen and charisma may yet pave the way for a resurgence.
Fani Kayode’s journey serves as a cautionary tale for politicians who prioritize personal gain over party loyalty and principles. As he navigates the aftermath of his desolation and exclusion, he will need to reflect on his actions and make strategic decisions to shape his future political trajectory.
By Obinna Ejianya (9News Nigeria – Melbourne, Australia)
