In the wake of the shocking U-turn by John Mayaki, former Chief Press Secretary to the immediate-past Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, the office of the Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has been forced to issue an official disclaimer, clarifying that Mayaki’s recent statements do not reflect the views of the new administration. The Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, has strongly rebuffed Mayaki’s claims, exposing the true nature of the intrigues, manipulations, and deadly political moves that Mayaki has been engaged in since the tragic loss of his PDP in the last gubernatorial election.
This statement marks a decisive moment in Edo State politics. After all, what seemed like a genuine turn of allegiance by Mayaki is, in reality, a web of opportunistic maneuvering designed to benefit one man: himself.
Only a few months ago, Mayaki was openly deriding the very same individuals he now seeks to cozy up to, including the newly sworn-in Governor, Senator Okpebholo. In a series of verbal attacks, Mayaki did not hold back, labeling Okpebholo a “dullard,” mocking his grasp of English, and even dragging him through the mud in front of the public. In fact, his onslaught extended to high-profile APC figures such as Adams Oshiomhole, whom Mayaki mocked with unparalleled disdain, ridiculing him as if he were an unskilled performer at a low-budget circus.
Or was it the APC state chairman, Emperor Jarret Tenebe, whom Mayaki manipulated and treated like an airplane rudder? He ridiculed Jarret so much that he almost became a meme, resembling a joker.
So, when Mayaki suddenly reappeared in the public sphere, showering praises on Okpebholo just months after describing him in the most derogatory terms, questions had to be asked. Was this a genuine conversion, or was it yet another example of a desperate political survivor attempting to latch onto the next rising star?
The truth, as subtly highlighted in the Chief Press Secretary’s statement, is that Mayaki’s actions seem to be driven by a singular, almost palpable ambition: securing a role in the Okpebholo administration. Having fallen out of favor with the PDP following their devastating electoral defeat, Mayaki has been scrambling to reinvent himself as the voice of the people. His sudden and, frankly, unconvincing praise of Okpebholo—whom he once disparaged as an incompetent “dullard”—betrays a sense of desperation. It’s hard to ignore whispers in political circles suggesting that Mayaki may be aiming for the very position he once held in the previous administration as Chief Press Secretary to Governor Obaseki.
This raises an important question: which position does Mayaki intend to take over? Is he aiming for the Chief Press Secretary role held by Itua, the position of official spokesman for Okpebholo occupied by Oshiobugie, or the role of media aide on strategy held by Godswill Iniegbe? These individuals have been steadfast in defending the administration, with some even risking their lives and facing attacks for Okpebholo, while Mayaki was benefiting from the campaign funds of Asue.
Mayaki’s excessive enthusiasm and attempts to undermine the current media team suggest he may be trying to outshine those who have loyally stood by Okpebholo during times of harsh criticism.
Mayaki no dey see the wahala wey this kain move fit bring? E just dey copy wetin don scatter other people career before. Abi e no remember Vice President Osinbajo own? When e carry that “STARBOY” title put for head, dem begin see am as person wey wan challenge him oga dem. STARBOY ke? Starboy for where Buhari still dey gidigba? Abeg, who dash monkey banana? 😂
The focus of Mayaki’s ambition now seems less about contributing to the betterment of Edo State and more about self-preservation. This display of energy and attempts to monopolize the media spotlight only further casts doubt on his motives, suggesting that his allegiance to Okpebholo may be driven less by admiration and more by a desire to secure a powerful position in the administration. In light of history, such ambition can be a dangerous game to play.
The truth, as Fred Itua made abundantly clear, is that Mayaki no longer holds any official capacity within the Governor’s Office. His words now carry no weight, and any attempt to link him to the Governor’s administration is a blatant distortion of the truth.
For the APC, and particularly for the Okpebholo administration, this opportunism has become a political liability. Mayaki’s past behavior, full of insults and undermining of party leaders, has left a stain on the image of the party. His recent attempts to resurface as a spokesman for the Governor undermine the trust and unity that the APC has worked tirelessly to build. His flip-flopping between the PDP and the APC only exposes the shallowness of his political convictions.
More damaging is the fact that Mayaki’s behavior has now raised questions about the integrity of the APC’s leadership. As the public is left to wonder whether Mayaki’s sudden praise for Okpebholo is driven by genuine admiration or a desire for power, the party risks being seen as a mere vehicle for personal ambitions rather than a genuine force for change in Edo State.
The party cannot afford to appear as if it is rewarding opportunistic behavior. The apparent ease with which Mayaki switched allegiances—moving from the APC to the PDP, then back to the APC—sends the wrong message about loyalty, integrity, and the values that the party espouses. The APC’s credibility is now in question, and its leaders must take urgent steps to distance themselves from a man whose political pragmatism has left many questioning his motives.
Given the gravity of Mayaki’s actions, it is not surprising that the Okpebholo government has opted to issue a formal disclaimer. The Chief Press Secretary’s statement unequivocally states that Mayaki does not speak for the Governor. In fact, his recent utterances have caused considerable damage to the reputation of the administration, prompting this necessary action to protect the image of the new government.
The Governor’s office has made it clear that Mayaki’s attempts to align himself with the Okpebholo administration are both unauthorized and misleading. His claims of being a spokesperson for the Governor have been dismissed outright, leaving no room for doubt that Mayaki’s current actions are driven purely by personal ambition.
As Fred Itua aptly put it, the public must verify any statements attributed to the Governor through official channels. This strategic move ensures that the Governor’s Office remains insulated from the damaging effects of Mayaki’s opportunistic behavior and sends a strong message that the Okpebholo administration will not be swayed by political opportunists.
Moving forward, the Okpebholo administration must work diligently to repair the damage caused by Mayaki’s antics. The party must demonstrate that loyalty, integrity, and principle are paramount, and that political opportunism will not be tolerated. The Governor must continue to assert control over his own narrative and ensure that his office is not tainted by individuals like Mayaki, who view politics as a game of self-interest rather than a call to serve the people.
While Mayaki may continue to attempt to weasel his way back into the fold, the Okpebholo government has made its stance clear: there is no place for political opportunists. As the dust settles, the focus must shift to governance and delivering on the promises made to the people of Edo State, leaving behind the distractions caused by self-serving individuals like Mayaki.
In the end, it is the people of Edo State who must be the ultimate beneficiaries of true leadership, not those who simply seek to use the system for personal gain. The challenge now lies in ensuring that the Okpebholo government remains untainted by the manipulations of those like Mayaki, whose political career seems more about self-preservation than serving the people.
Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah is the Principal and CEO of Bush Radio Academy and the former Director of the APC New Media Directorate for the 2024 Edo Governorship Election.