Obasanjo Publicly Forgives Fayose, Ends Longstanding Political Rift
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has formally reconciled with former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, declaring that he has forgiven the ex-governor after nearly two decades of political hostility between the two men.
Obasanjo made the remarks on Saturday at Fayose’s 65th birthday celebration in Lagos, an event attended by political associates and well-wishers. In a video shared online, the former president said the occasion offered a moment for celebration as well as reflection.
“Before I came here, some people reminded me of the things he said about me,” Obasanjo told the crowd, prompting laughter. “Thank you for reminding me,” he added, suggesting that the passage of time had softened old grievances.
The rift between the two dates back to 2006, when Fayose was removed from office as governor. Widespread reports at the time suggested that Obasanjo played a key role in the political maneuvering that led to his ouster. Their dispute later spilled into the public domain, including a heated confrontation at a 2010 thanksgiving service for former Osun State governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola, where both men exchanged harsh words.
Over the years, Fayose became one of Obasanjo’s most vocal critics, often challenging his public statements and accusing him of contributing to Nigeria’s economic and political difficulties. In 2017, he urged the former president to refrain from making comments he said could further discourage citizens already grappling with hardship.
Despite the long-running tension, signs of reconciliation emerged last week when Fayose visited Obasanjo at his Abeokuta residence ahead of his birthday. According to his former media aide, Lere Olayinka, the visit followed earlier overtures and involved several intermediaries, including former Aviation Minister Osita Chidoka. Photographs from the meeting showed both men in high spirits, even sharing a game of “Ayo Olopon.”
Speaking at the birthday event, Obasanjo recounted how the peace efforts unfolded, revealing that Fayose initially approached him through intermediaries before making direct contact. He also disclosed that he had admonished Fayose and his wife during the process.
“I told your wife, ‘You and your husband are not Omoluabi.’ She admitted and asked for forgiveness,” Obasanjo said. “Once that is done, what else can I do? You are forgiven. But the right lessons must be learnt.”
The former president acknowledged Fayose’s political achievements and said turning 65 was a milestone worth celebrating. He urged the former governor to make peace with others he may have offended and to extend forgiveness to those who wronged him.
With Obasanjo’s public declaration of forgiveness, one of Nigeria’s most prominent political feuds appears to have come to an end.
