Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, has opened up about an intense moment during his 65th birthday celebration in Lagos, revealing how he nearly lost his composure due to remarks made by former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
The high-profile birthday event, attended by numerous political figures and dignitaries, became the stage for a renewed tension between Fayose and Obasanjo, whose longstanding political feud has been widely reported over the years. Obasanjo, while acknowledging Fayose’s political achievements, reportedly described him as “not the best” among his political protégés, sending subtle but pointed messages during his speech.
In a candid interview following the event, Fayose explained that he had reached out to Obasanjo two weeks prior to the celebration to attempt reconciliation. He clarified that the purpose of his outreach was not to apologise. “I never called to go and apologise to Baba. I did not offend him. He was the one that removed me from office. If anybody should apologise, it is him,” he stressed.
Fayose further revealed that he had personally ensured Obasanjo’s attendance at the birthday, despite the former President having a prior commitment in Rwanda. Fayose handled all travel logistics and provided twenty thousand dollars for the former President’s expenses, demonstrating his commitment to bridging the gap between them.
However, the atmosphere became tense during the celebration itself. Obasanjo insisted on speaking last, overriding the previously scheduled slot for the Vice-President, and delivered an extensive speech lasting one hour and fourteen minutes. During this time, he reportedly inserted veiled criticisms and reflections on their political disagreements, which struck a nerve with Fayose.
“How do you say such things to a man on his 65th birthday?” Fayose questioned, expressing his disbelief at the timing and tone of Obasanjo’s comments. The former governor admitted that his anger surged to the point where he felt like grabbing the microphone and physically confronting Obasanjo. Nevertheless, he restrained himself, citing maturity, self-respect, and the presence of the Vice-President at the event as reasons for maintaining composure.
Reflecting on the attempt at reconciliation, Fayose noted that while his intentions had been genuine, Obasanjo’s actions demonstrated a lack of interest in mending fences. “If I knew this was how it would end, what do I need Obasanjo for?” he mused, underlining his disappointment and frustration with the encounter despite his efforts to foster peace.
The incident has since sparked discussions among political observers and on social media, with many debating the complexities of long-standing political rivalries and the challenges of public reconciliation, especially in highly charged environments such as milestone celebrations.