Isaac Fayose, brother of former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose, has claimed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed his brother to a government position partly because of the political influence of former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi.
Fayose reportedly made the claim while discussing the political relationship between the Tinubu administration and individuals associated with different political camps in the country.
According to him, the appointment was influenced by the need to respond to the growing political relevance of Obi, who emerged as a major contender in the 2023 presidential election and attracted significant support, particularly among younger Nigerians.
Fayose’s claim has generated public interest because it touches on the sensitive issue of political appointments and the factors that influence the selection of individuals for government positions. In Nigeria, appointments to key offices often attract public scrutiny, with observers debating whether such decisions are based on competence, political loyalty, regional considerations or strategic calculations.
The allegation is also significant against the backdrop of Nigeria’s evolving political landscape. Obi’s performance in the 2023 presidential election established him as a major figure in opposition politics, while the Labour Party has continued to maintain a strong presence among sections of the electorate.
However, Fayose’s statement represents his personal assessment of the circumstances surrounding the appointment. There was no immediate independent confirmation that Tinubu made the appointment specifically in response to Peter Obi’s political influence.
President Tinubu assumed office in May 2023 after winning the presidential election and has since made several appointments across government ministries, departments and agencies. His administration has defended its appointments as part of efforts to assemble a team capable of implementing its policy agenda.
The latest claim is likely to fuel further discussions about the role of political strategy in government appointments and the continuing influence of major opposition figures.
As Nigeria’s political parties and leaders prepare for future elections, statements such as Fayose’s are expected to contribute to ongoing debates about alliances, appointments and the shifting balance of political influence across the country.
