Did Femi Fani-Kayode, a former fierce critic of Bola Tinubu, actually campaign for him and praise him during the 2023 presidential election and now? Once a vocal opponent, Fani-Kayode’s shift towards becoming one of Tinubu’s most prominent allies in recent Nigeria is another story to flash back on.
Femi Fani-Kayode, a former Minister of Aviation and once a vocal critic of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has made several public statements reflecting his evolving stance towards the Nigerian political figure.
In a now-viral social media post in 2019, Fani-Kayode had previously described Tinubu in harsh terms, claiming that he had abandoned his roots in favour of northern interests. Fani-Kayode wrote that Tinubu sold his soul to the devil and his conscience to the North.
The former minister went further, calling Tinubu a shameless soul and wicked man who is ready to sacrifice anyone and anything to become President.
The post Reads, “The greatest danger to Nigeria are not the Fulani terrorists who seek to enslave us but the small handful of treacherous Yoruba slaves who have dedicated their miserable lives to serving and worshipping them.
“These people are FROM the SW but not OF the SW. They are nothing but scum and filth. Permit me to give you one example.
“I listened to Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s slurred speech and utter nonsense at Pa Fasoranti’s home. He was as inconsiderate and insensitive as ever.
“He was not there to mourn or commiserate with Pa Fasoranti, he was there to play politics and speak for his Fulani masters.
“What on earth have Evans the kidnapper or the Igbo got to do with the targeting and assassination of Mrs. Funke Fasoranti-Olakunrin?
“And why the obscene determination and desperate hurry to absolve the Fulani of this hideous crime?
“He may not believe that they did it but why would he rule it out completely? Does he know something that we do not know? Is he an expert when it comes to assassination, homicide, and murder matters?
“Does he know who the killers are? Why the rush to tell us who it wasn’t? Can’t he at least wait for the police to conclude their so-called investigation?
“Even for a confirmed quisling and desperate serf, this time Tinubu has gone too far. Funke has not even been buried yet and he is already pissing all over her bullet-riddled body.
“Tinubu has sold his soul to the devil and his conscience to the north. He has become a slave to his ambition and a plague to his people.
“He is a shameless soul and wicked man who is ready to sacrifice anyone and anything to become President.
“I make this pronouncement today: as long as Jesus sits on the throne he will fail woefully.“
Also, in June 2020, Fani-Kayode criticized Tinubu’s comments during a visit to Ogun State, where Tinubu claimed to have played a pivotal role in the political ascent of certain individuals. Fani-Kayode responded by stating, “When a mere mortal says ‘I made you,’ it is an affront to God, a stench to His nostrils and a challenge to His sovereignty.”
He emphasized that only God has power over one’s destiny, suggesting that such declarations by Tinubu were inappropriate.
Femi Fani Kayode’s Sudden Change in Support and Stance During the 2023 Presidential Campaign
Femi Fani-Kayode drew significant attention due to his sudden shift in allegiance. Initially a vocal critic of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Fani-Kayode surprised many by defecting to the APC and throwing his full support behind Tinubu’s candidacy.
“Defence Against Health-Related Attacks“
In November 2022, Fani-Kayode defended Tinubu against detractors questioning his health and fitness for office. He asserted, “Asiwaju cannot be detained, he cannot be locked up, his election cannot be annulled, nor can he be killed.” He further emphasized, “Only God gives and takes life.”
Despite previous criticisms, Fani-Kayode shifted his position expressing unwavering support for Tinubu’s presidential bid.
He declared, “No matter what transpired before, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is now the democratically elected and legitimate candidate of the political party to which I belong.” Addressing his critics, he added, “Leave me alone to make my choices just as you have made yours. Follow whoever you believe into the toilet and let me follow Jagaban to victory.”
“Praise for Tinubu’s Leadership Qualities“
Following Tinubu’s inauguration in May 2023, Fani-Kayode lauded the new president’s leadership attributes. He described Tinubu as “resilient, focused, clear-thinking and has clear objectives and understanding of what he needs to do.”
Fani-Kayode also noted, “He is a very courageous man who is committed to his course.”
“Reaffirmation of Loyalty Amidst Criticism“
Also in May 2023, addressing perceptions of Tinubu’s trustworthiness, Fani-Kayode dismissed such notions as “absurd.”
He stated, “No one appreciates the virtues of loyalty and courage under fire and stands by those that have fought for and entered the heat of battle with him more than Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
Fani-Kayode’s public statements and sudden transformation in his relationship with Tinubu have been described by Nigerians as the character of a dubious politician.
Follow the Parallel Facts channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCQSAoHgZWiDjR3Kn2E
