Shehu Sani Defends Ayo Fayose's Appointment to Rural Electrification Agency
Senator Shehu Sani has publicly supported former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose following criticism over Fayose's appointment as Chairman of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) by President Bola Tinubu. The APC chieftain, representing Kaduna Central, argued that Fayose's grassroots background makes him a fitting choice to lead an agency serving rural Nigerians.
In a post on his X account on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, Sani described Fayose as "a grassroots politician and a man of the masses" whose appointment aligns with the agency's mission to extend electricity to underserved communities. The post garnered nearly 80,000 views, sparking mixed reactions from Nigerians.
Criticism Over Past Statements
Critics questioned Fayose's credibility for a senior federal appointment under the APC-led government, citing his history as an outspoken opposition figure. Sani dismissed the scrutiny with an analogy: "Why do you want to judge him by what he said years ago? Let he who has never assured his EX that they will be together forever cast the first stone."
The REA oversees efforts to power communities off the national grid. Sani's defence reframed the debate, suggesting Fayose's record of connecting with ordinary people is precisely the quality needed for the role.
Mixed Reactions Online
Reactions to Sani's post were divided. @AdeobaSam7 backed the appointment, writing: "Fayose has always been PBAT's man since the days of Obasanjo. So there is nothing bad in his decision now." However, @SUNNYISIFE countered: "If you cannot hold a person by his past statements, how do you believe what he is saying now? On this, you're wrong, Mr Sani."
@kayusnig909 distinguished youthful promises from adult commitments: "Senator sir, with all due respect, if at his age he can quickly renege on his word... then he should not be trusted... there is a huge difference between telling ur EX that u will be with her/him forever as Youngman or woman and a full grown adult reneging on his word."
@seanelhadji described the appointment as a political gesture: "Fayose's appointment is that proverbial one piece of cookie you give a crying baby, just to keep quiet; it is what you call, 'sa take, make I rest'!"
Supporters like @oluwajueda48437 sided with Sani: "Past statements don't power generators; capacity does. Ayo Fayose has always been a man of the people. Appointing a hardcore grassroots politician to head the Rural Electrification Agency is a strategic win for the ordinary masses who actually need light."
@ujubest94 raised concerns about electoral calculations ahead of the 2027 general elections, suggesting the defence was driven by political timing rather than genuine conviction.
Fayose's Earlier Stance on Tinubu's Offer
In October 2025, Fayose publicly turned down an offer from President Tinubu, insisting he had no interest in serving under the APC government. His recent appointment has raised questions about his earlier pledge to stay out of public office. Fayose's brother, Isaac, has since criticised the former governor over the appointment.
