Veteran journalist and politician, Dele Momodu, has delivered a scathing critique of former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, describing him as “incurable” in temperament and unfit for public responsibility.
In a piece titled “Femi Fani-Kayode: When Will You Stop Being a Thug?”, Momodu expressed deep concern over what he characterised as Fani-Kayode’s long-standing pattern of combative and controversial behaviour, despite his privileged upbringing and elite education.
Momodu recalled his acquaintance with Fani-Kayode’s late father, Chief Remilekun Fani-Kayode, a respected legal luminary, noting that expectations for the former minister had always been high given his family background and access to top-tier education, including at Cambridge University.
The Ovation magazine publisher did not hold back in his assessment, portraying Fani-Kayode as someone who had failed to live up to his potential.
He accused him of being perpetually embroiled in conflicts, both personal and political, and resistant to efforts by friends and associates to moderate his behaviour.
According to Momodu, repeated interventions and appeals aimed at guiding Fani-Kayode toward restraint and decorum have yielded little result, describing his disposition as troubling and persistent.
Momodu also raised concerns over reports that President Bola Tinubu may consider Fani-Kayode for a diplomatic role, specifically as Nigeria’s ambassador to Germany.
He questioned the suitability of such an appointment, arguing that diplomatic positions require composure, discipline, and the ability to represent the nation with dignity on the international stage.
In the article, Momodu further disclosed that Fani-Kayode had previously expressed frustration over delays in securing a political appointment, even exploring alternative options, including outreach to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
He suggested that Fani-Kayode’s strong desire for political relevance and access to power has influenced much of his public conduct.
Momodu urged Fani-Kayode to seek personal reform and adopt a more measured approach to public life, especially at a time when he may be entrusted with national responsibility.
The commentary added to a long history of public exchanges involving prominent Nigerian political figures, underscoring ongoing tensions within the country’s political landscape.
