I Was Enraged And Almost Attacked Obasanjo During My Birthday — Fayose

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Ayo Fayose has narrated how his 65th birthday celebration took an unexpected turn after former President Olusegun Obasanjo made remarks that left him seething with anger.

Speaking in an interview with AF24 News, the former Ekiti State governor said he was shocked and upset by Obasanjo’s conduct at the Lagos event, particularly when the ex-president once more tagged him as “not the best” of his political protégés — a comment Fayose said struck him deeply despite being followed by some acknowledgements of his achievements.

Fayose explained that ahead of the birthday, he had made conscious efforts to reconcile with those he had clashed with politically. This included reaching out to Obasanjo through mutual contact Osita Chidoka, though he emphasized the call was not an apology.

“I never called to go and apologise to Baba. I did not offend him. He was the one who removed me from office. If anybody should apologise, it is he,” Fayose insisted.

He recounted how Obasanjo welcomed him warmly when he visited the former president’s home before the event and even agreed to attend despite having an engagement in Rwanda. Fayose added that he made logistical arrangements for him.

“We took pictures together. All in good faith. I changed $20,000 and gave it to him. How can you accept somebody’s money and come and be spitting on that person?” he asked.

According to Fayose, his discomfort began when Obasanjo declared that he must speak last, even after the Vice-President.

“Baba said he would be the one to speak last. I became suspicious,” he said.

He explained that Obasanjo later instructed the moderator to introduce Vice President Kashim Shettima before calling him up, and then demanded that Fayose and his wife stand beside him throughout a lengthy speech that lasted “one hour, 14 minutes,” during which he dropped several veiled jabs.

“I was enraged. I felt like taking the mic from Obasanjo’s hand and hitting it on his head. This is being sincere,” Fayose admitted.

“How do you say such things to a man on his 65th birthday?” he added.

Fayose said he restrained himself out of respect for the vice-president and maintained his composure. He added that his efforts to settle past differences were genuine, but the experience made it clear to him that Obasanjo had no intention of reconciliation.

“If I knew this was how it would end, what do I need Obasanjo for? Am I contesting the election? Do I need his validation? No,” he said.

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