Popular businessman and social commentator, Isaac Fayose, has stirred fresh political debate in Oyo State after claiming that his elder brother, former Ekiti State governor Ayo Fayose, played a major role in the emergence of Governor Seyi Makinde in the 2019 governorship election.
Isaac made the claim in a video posted on his official Facebook page amid the growing political disagreement between Ayo Fayose and Makinde, two prominent members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The businessman said he was personally involved in discussions and meetings that eventually led to Makinde becoming governor and therefore had firsthand knowledge of the relationship between the two political figures.
His comments come at a time when relations between the former Ekiti governor and the Oyo State governor appear to have deteriorated significantly, raising questions about the future of political alliances within the PDP in the South-West.
Speaking in the video, Isaac Fayose said Ayo Fayose provided crucial support for Makinde’s governorship ambition at a critical period when the Oyo politician was seeking to secure the PDP ticket and win the election.
According to him, his brother’s influence and political network contributed greatly to Makinde’s success.
“Ayo Fayose made Seyi Makinde governor through me over seven years ago. I was party to all that transpired between them,” Isaac said.
He added that despite his personal relationship with both men, he had decided to support his brother in the ongoing dispute.
“In this fight between my brother and Governor Makinde, I am going to support Ayo Fayose,” he stated.
Isaac further recalled several meetings that allegedly took place before the 2019 election and said he was present at some of the discussions that shaped the political arrangement.
According to him, one of the meetings was held at his resort in the Ring Road area of Ibadan, where key figures allegedly gathered to discuss Makinde’s political future.
“Makinde, do you remember the first cow we killed at my resort in Ring Road, Ibadan while planning to make you a governor?” he asked.
The businessman maintained that Ayo Fayose threw his weight behind Makinde when it mattered most and helped him gain political acceptance within influential PDP circles.
“Ayo Fayose made you Oyo State Governor. I’m not supporting him; I’m just being fair among both of you,” he said.
Isaac also mentioned the late Anthony Enahoro’s family while recalling the events leading to the election. He specifically referred to Victor Enahoro, saying he attended some of the meetings where discussions about Makinde’s governorship ambition took place.
“Do you remember Victor Enahoro, Anthony Enahoro’s son? We were all at the meeting that brought you as governor. I went to my brother and begged him on your behalf and he did the needful,” he claimed.
The remarks are the latest development in the growing tension between Makinde and Ayo Fayose, both of whom have been influential figures within the PDP.
While the exact cause of the disagreement has not been fully explained publicly, political observers believe it is connected to the struggle for influence within the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In recent months, Ayo Fayose has openly criticised some political developments within the PDP and has also expressed dissatisfaction with certain actions of party leaders.
The former governor recently vowed to reclaim political influence in Oyo State, a statement many interpreted as a direct challenge to Makinde’s dominance within the state’s political structure.
Reacting to the situation, Isaac said he understood why his brother felt disappointed.
According to him, Ayo Fayose believes he contributed significantly to Makinde’s rise to power but has not received the appreciation or recognition he expected.
“I understand Fayose’s anger. Because he put you there and now you neglected him, he wants to take Oyo State back,” Isaac said.
The comments have generated discussion among political stakeholders, particularly within the PDP, where both Makinde and Fayose have long been regarded as major power brokers.
Makinde emerged as governor of Oyo State in 2019 after defeating candidates from rival political parties. His victory was widely seen as a major breakthrough after previous unsuccessful attempts to secure the state’s top office.
Before becoming governor, Makinde had contested elections on more than one occasion and built a reputation as a businessman and politician with strong grassroots support.
As governor of Ekiti State between 2014 and 2018, Fayose was known for his outspoken style and active involvement in party affairs beyond his state.
His support for candidates in other states often attracted attention, particularly within the South-West political landscape.
However, neither Makinde nor his administration has officially responded to Isaac Fayose’s latest claims.
The allegations are also difficult to independently verify, as political negotiations and alliance-building before elections often take place behind closed doors.
Nevertheless, the comments have added a new dimension to the ongoing political dispute and may further deepen divisions within the PDP as the party prepares for future electoral contests.