By Adeoye Stephen Aribasoye
As I reflect on my journey and the profound influence Dr. Kayode Fayemi—fondly known as JKF—has had on my life, I am filled with gratitude and admiration. My quest for mentorship and understanding of true leadership began long ago, fueled by my reading of countless biographies, autobiographies, and books on leadership. Yet, it was sometimes in 2005, when I stumbled upon Dr. Fayemi’s book, Out of Shadows, that I truly found a connection.
In his book, Dr. Fayemi chronicled his courageous struggle against military dictatorship in Nigeria and his relentless fight for the actualization of the annulled June 12 election. It was inspiring to learn that a young man from my darling Ekiti state, merely at 28 years old, had earned a Ph.D. in War Studies from the prestigious King’s College, UK, and was deeply involved in the fight for democracy in our beloved Nigeria. I was both awed and motivated by his bravery and commitment to a cause greater than himself.
I must emphasize that I have always been a young man driven by a passion for leadership and mentorship. For nearly a decade, I had the honor of leading the youth within the Redeemed Christian Church of God and leading my campus fellowship at CASOR. My leadership journey began even earlier, as I served as class captain from primary school through to my secondary education. This intentional quest for mentorship was not merely a pursuit; it was a calling that shaped my character and aspirations.
Throughout my journey, I encountered numerous remarkable individuals, both in person and through their writings. However, it was my connection with Dr. Kayode Fayemi, ignited by his profound insights, that truly propelled my more engagement in politics, alongside the impactful message from Bishop David Oyedepo that I heard in 1997. Dr. Fayemi’s story resonated deeply within me, instilling a profound commitment to the ideals of leadership and service. This connection illuminated my path and reinforced my belief in the transformative power of mentorship to change lives and uplift communities. In 2002, I ran for a councilor position but faced defeat, and the political landscape in Ekiti became increasingly chaotic in 2003. It was during this tumultuous period in 2006 that I further discovered Dr. Fayemi’s meticulously crafted profile, solidifying my conviction that I had found a true mentor in him.
Though I had not yet met him, I took it upon myself to share his vision and values, moving from one government agency to another, advocating for this remarkable son of Ekiti whom I had never met. I was in the Civil Service of Ekiti State then, this endeavor allowed me to connect more with influential civil servants, becoming a foot soldier for the man whose words had already inspired my path.
It was not until after he assumed office as Governor in 2010 that I had the chance to engage with him directly. During the tumultuous period of his election struggle, I was deeply involved, and my decision to pursue a law degree in 2007 was significantly influenced by his profile.
My eventual meeting with JKF emerged from a spirited exchange of SMS messages, sparked by my disagreement with him over a pressing students’ issue. That day, we engaged in a vigorous debate, trading twelve messages back and forth, until he invited me to meet him in person at his hometown of Isan Ekiti for a deeper discussion. Guided by his Chief Security Officer, Mr. Akeem Abiola, I arrived at his modest visitors’ reception area, where I was greeted by Uncle Segun, his brother.
After addressing the matter at hand, I felt a surge of apprehension and wonder—what must he have been thinking as I dared to challenge a sitting Governor in his own home? Yet, I was profoundly humbled by his humility. He listened intently to my concerns, taking the time to articulate his perspective until I was fully convinced of his position. Then, turning to his brother, Uncle Segun, he remarked, “These are the kind of young men I love to engage with.”
In that moment, JKF not only recognized my courage and boldness; he also extended to me the freedom to approach him at any time. With that gesture, he shattered the barriers between us, demystifying the office of the Governor and winning my heart completely. His approach to leadership exemplified a profound commitment to inclusivity and mentorship, leaving an indelible mark on my journey.
The relationship blossomed into a deliberate mentorship that profoundly shaped my journey. Dr. Fayemi made it a priority to include me in state functions, particularly those focused on intellectual engagement. He provided me with a platform to address the Ekiti Elders Forum on two occasions and appointed me as the youth representative to help chart a path for Ekiti’s development. I was honored to be part of the team tasked with drafting the Ekiti Youth Policy, and he ensured my attendance at numerous lectures he delivered across various institutions.
Alongside ‘Deolu Oyebode, Asefon Sunday Dayo and other student leaders, I had the privilege of organizing the first Students’ Day celebration in Ekiti State. It was during this event that my speech truly showcased my capabilities, capturing his attention and deepening his interest in my potential. Seizing this opportunity, I proposed the establishment of a dedicated office to coordinate student affairs in the state. To my delight, he embraced this vision, leading to the creation of the first Special Assistant to the Governor on Student Matters in Ekiti State.
On the final day of my university exams, he invited me to his home in Isan Ekiti, where he expressed his desire for me to join his team as he prepared for his reelection campaign. I hesitated, knowing that accepting his offer would mean deferring my law school admission, which had been assured by my Dean, Prof. Timothy Akomolede, due to limited slots. It was a profound dilemma, one that brought tears to my eyes as I made my choice. With unwavering support, JKF stood up from his exalted chair, patted me on the back, and reassured me, “You will not regret your decision.”
That moment marked a pivotal turn in my life. I immediately called my Dean, who was waiting for my decision, and with a trembling voice, I informed him that I was ready to defer my law school admission. Consequently, I was appointed as the Director of Youth and Students Mobilization on JKF’s campaign council. He later sent me to Johannesburg, South Africa, for leadership and entrepreneurship training alongside other young leaders.
Throughout the campaign for his second term, I stood by his side, traversing every corner of Ekiti State. Although we faced the heartache of losing the election, one invaluable lesson I learned from JKF was the power of calmness and the call for peace, even when confronted with egregious injustices. When the APC took the matter to the election tribunal, I served as the sole witness on a crucial aspect of the petition, and he was impressed by my performance.
Not long after, he was selected to chair the conduct of the APC Presidential primary, and I was honored to be chosen as part of the ad hoc committee that ultimately conducted election that produced President Muhammadu Buhari as the APC’s flag bearer. Through it all, JKF’s mentorship has been a guiding light, inspiring me to embrace leadership with integrity and purpose.
Throughout my time with JKF, I learned invaluable lessons about leadership. He exemplified calmness and integrity, even in the face of adversity, teaching me that true leaders remain steadfast and appeal for peace, even when circumstances are unfavorable. His unwavering support extended beyond political ambitions; he paid for my law school fees and remained deeply invested in my growth.
One unforgettable moment was when I was tasked with delivering his gubernatorial nomination form to Abuja. With the submission deadline looming just hours away and the form still in Ekiti at 7 PM, I set off at 9 PM on what felt like an impossible journey. I traveled a winding route on different commercial vehicles from Ado Ekiti to Oye, then on to Omuo, Kabba, Okene, Lokoja, and finally to Kubwa Junction, where a vehicle awaited me. Throughout the journey, JKF called every 30 minutes to check on my safety, his genuine concern evident in his voice. I arrived in Abuja around 2:30 AM, and to my relief, he was waiting patiently for me that night. Meanwhile, some aspirants were already boasting that he wouldn’t submit the form. But, as history shows, that was far from the truth.
Following his momentous victory at the polls, I found myself with JKF the very next day at his home in Isan Ekiti, dining alongside many other members of his Central Working Committee. He took my hand and led me into his living room, asking point-blank, “What do you want?” Without hesitation, I replied, “Whatever you need me to do is what I want.” I expressed my belief that he understood my capabilities better than I did and knew precisely where I could contribute to his administration. Although he was still the Governor-elect, he revealed his vision for me: “I’d love for you to go to the House of Assembly; you have much to offer there.” He then asked, “What do you think?” I didn’t wait for him to finish; I quickly affirmed, “Whatever you want is what I will do and Your Excellency has spoken.” That sealed our conversation.
Our collaborative journey continued as I was elected to the Ekiti State House of Assembly. JKF’s mentorship was crucial. He encouraged my curiosity and audacity, fostering an environment where I could voice my concerns and contribute meaningfully. His approachability and willingness to learn from others were hallmarks of his transformational leadership.
Today, on the occasion of Dr. Kayode Fayemi’s 60th birthday, I celebrate not just a mentor, but a visionary leader who has transformed lives, inspired countless youths, and championed the cause of democracy in Nigeria. His legacy is one of courage, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to service.
Thank you, JKF, for believing in me, for nurturing my potential, and for being a beacon of hope in my life. You are not just a leader; you are a true inspiration.
Rt. Hon. Adeoye Stephen Aribasoye
Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly