4. Lack of political structure
As much as Fayemi recorded laundable achievements as Ekiti State governor, sympathisers of the governor had always worried that his lack of strong and virile political structure was a big minus for him as he sought a second term in office. Apart from party cells across the state, many believed that the governor needed to have a core of political loyalists, “enforcers” and foot soldiers who would always ensure that he is in touch with the ordinary people. These are people who are expected to pop up at people’s social events and meetings and liaise with them and “deliver” a message from the governor. Fayemi did not have this set of people. Many attributed this to his refusal to conduct local government election throughout his tenure ─ a situation that brought about using caretaker chairmen the longest among whom spent only one year in office before being removed. During the election, beyond party structure, there were no strong political figures who could swing things in favour of the governor when the die was cast. Most importantly, Fayemi was undermined by the exit of his friend and political associate, Opeyemi Bamidele, who decided to run against him. This exposed the vulnerability of his government and weakened the structure that Fayemi could have mobilised for re-election.
