Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has announced that he has forgiven former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose for his past grievances, effectively ending the long-standing political rift between the two figures.
Obasanjo made the remarks during Fayose’s well-attended 65th birthday celebration held in Lagos on Saturday.
In a video shared by the online television station CityEdge, the former President noted that the occasion called for celebration, reflection, and reconciliation. “Before I started coming here, some people called me and said, ‘We heard that you are going to Ayo Fayose’s birthday (celebration). Can’t you remember that he abused you?’ I said, ‘Thank you for reminding me,’” he quipped, eliciting laughter from the audience.
The Rift
According to Daily Trust, the discord between Fayose and Obasanjo began after Fayose’s removal as Ekiti Governor in 2006, an event alleged to have been orchestrated by Obasanjo. The tensions escalated in 2010 when they exchanged heated words at a public forum in Okuku, Osun State, during a thanksgiving service organized by former Osun Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola. The confrontation arose after Fayose declined to greet Obasanjo, leading to a verbal exchange where Obasanjo called Fayose a “bastard,” and Fayose retaliated by labeling Obasanjo the “father of bastards.”
Over the years, Fayose has frequently criticized Obasanjo, especially when the elder statesman has made statements on national issues. In 2017, Fayose rebuked Obasanjo for comments suggesting his generation had failed the nation, urging him to speak for himself rather than generalize. “There is much suffering in the land. The people are hungry. Yet, one of those responsible for this unsavory state of affairs relishes in adding insult to the people’s injury,” he stated.
The Reconciliation
Last Sunday, Fayose visited Obasanjo in Abeokuta, Ogun State, ahead of his birthday. The former governor was welcomed by Obasanjo’s aides before proceeding to a private meeting with the former President. This visit followed Fayose’s attempts to initiate reconciliation through emissaries.
A post by Fayose’s former media aide, Lere Olayinka, highlighted their friendly interaction, including moments spent playing “Ayo Olopon.”
“Former Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, visited former President Olusegun Obasanjo in Abeokuta, Ogun State today. They both had an eventful time together,” Olayinka shared on his X account.
Obasanjo Forgives Fayose
At the birthday celebration, Obasanjo reflected on the efforts Fayose made to mend their relationship, including sending emissaries like former Aviation Minister Osita Chidoka. “You are not the best of my political children, but you have made achievements that must not be ignored,” Obasanjo remarked. He recounted how Fayose approached him indirectly and was cautious about their interactions.
Obasanjo also recalled a conversation with Fayose’s wife, where he scolded them for their past behavior. “I told your wife that ‘Madam, you and your husband are not Omoluabi.’ She admitted and said, ‘Baba, you are right. Please, forgive us.’ Then, what else can I do?” he stated.
He declared that Fayose is forgiven but emphasized the importance of learning the right lessons. Obasanjo acknowledged that reaching the age of 65 is a significant milestone worthy of celebration, citing a biblical verse about mourning and rejoicing together. He encouraged Fayose to reconcile with others he may have wronged and to forgive those who have offended him.
Credit: Daily Trust
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