By Kayode Balogun
As more details emerge about Isaac Fayose’s alleged shady dealings in Ekiti, questions are now extending beyond him to encompass the role of Odunayo Ehinafe, a member of the APC.
Despite his connection to prominent APC figures, Ehinafe has been accused of using his platform to amplify Fayose’s persistent critiques of Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration.
The situation has led many to question Ehinafe’s motives and loyalty, particularly given Fayose’s tainted record and Ehinafe’s political affiliations.
The controversy surrounding Isaac Fayose stems from so many shady deals he got during his brother’s administration, when he allegedly secured lucrative contracts including security and ID card deals, that he reportedly failed to complete.
The accusations point to Fayose’s misuse of public funds, which some claim were diverted while Ekiti’s public projects were left unexecuted.
This past, many argue, makes Fayose’s current criticisms of the BAO administration’s development agenda appear less like civic concern and more like a smokescreen to deflect attention from his own dubious history.
Ehinafe’s actions in amplifying Fayose’s attacks have not gone unnoticed. Gabriel Adesoji Angelgabby, a senior media aide to Governor Oyebanji, remarked, “That’s Odun for you; he has a hidden hatred for this government, but he has failed. He is a failure; he can’t fight me... he no fit. But for the sake of peace and love for BAO, we let him be.”
Angelgabby’s statement sheds light on the long-standing tensions between Ehinafe and the administration, implying that Ehinafe’s actions may stem from personal resentment rather than legitimate criticism.
Adding to the scrutiny, Asiwaju Kasali Oluwafemi, another of the governor’s media aides, recently took to Facebook to accuse Ehinafe of harboring ulterior motives. Olufemi wrote, “Odunayo Ehinafe, evidence yapa against you... you are a mole in the APC. You added Isaac Fayose to fight the government of Ekiti State because you are angry that the names you recommended for appointments were excluded from the last appointment.”
The backlash against Fayose intensified when one of his former associates, known on social media as “Ikole Nation,” stepped forward to reveal details of Fayose’s alleged misconduct. According to “Ikole Nation,” Fayose obtained a substantial security contract and an ID card production deal, both of which he allegedly abandoned after securing the funds.
This disclosure, made through WhatsApp, paints Fayose as an individual who, rather than prioritizing Ekiti’s development, has historically put personal gain first.
Ehinafe’s role in providing Fayose a platform has sparked public outrage, especially among those who feel his association with the APC should entail loyalty to BAO’s administration. As WhatsApp user Icon Ayomide noted, “Those taking Isaac Fayose seriously are not in any way better than him. We know that Isaac is looking for government patronage... But what’s troubling is that someone like Ehinafe, who owes his political career to a top APC ally, is turning his back on the administration that gave him a chance.”
Ayomide’s comment echoes a sentiment felt by many who believe Ehinafe’s actions undermine the progress BAO’s administration has achieved, including high-profile projects like the Ekiti airport and the upcoming flyover, both on track for completion within the next two years.
As these accusations continue to surface, both Fayose and Ehinafe find themselves under increasing scrutiny.
Fayose’s alleged history of unexecuted contracts and Ehinafe’s decision to provide him with a platform to undermine BAO’s administration leave many wondering: Is this simply a case of old allies seeking relevance, or is there a more calculated agenda at play?
The recalcitrant stance of Ehinafe seems to lend credence to the suspicion that he has an unholy agenda with Isaac Fayose against the BAO administration.
