‘It’s Not By Force To Be Relevant’ — Isaac Fayose Knocks Brother Over Oyo Kidnap Comment

Isaac Fayose has criticised his elder brother and former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, over his recent remarks on the abduction of schoolchildren in Oyo State, describing the comments as unnecessary and politically motivated.

Ayo Fayose had, during a television interview, alleged that Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, may have orchestrated the kidnapping of about 42 students and teachers, a claim that has since sparked widespread controversy.

The former governor also suggested that Makinde had the capacity to curb insecurity in his state but chose instead to use the situation to blackmail President Bola Tinubu.

His comments have continued to draw heavy backlash on social media, with many users accusing him of politicising a sensitive security incident and appearing to defend the federal government amid rising insecurity concerns.

Reacting in a video posted on his Facebook page, Isaac Fayose expressed disappointment over his brother’s position, saying he was ashamed of the claims made.

Isaac, a known advocate of good governance, accused the former governor of attempting to remain politically relevant through controversial statements and alignment with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

He questioned the consistency of Ayo Fayose’s criticism, pointing to similar security incidents in other states.

“Four weeks ago, they kidnapped people in Ekiti State, why didn’t you tell the governor that he is collecting security votes and should protect the people?” he said.

“My brother, people are looking at you like what is this man turning to. Do you mean that people are being killed in Katsina, Kwara and other APC states because their governors pocketed their security votes?”

Isaac further urged his brother to be more restrained in his public commentary, warning against statements that could inflame political tensions or shift responsibility for insecurity without evidence.

“If you don’t have anything to say, please remain quiet like every other former governor, it is not by force to be relevant,” he said.

The exchange has intensified public debate on insecurity in Nigeria, as well as the role of political actors in commenting on kidnapping incidents and broader security challenges across the country.