Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has officially ended his long-standing feud with ex-Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose, offering public forgiveness during Fayose’s 65th birthday party held in Lagos on Sunday, November 16, 2025.
In a lighthearted moment captured on video, Obasanjo joked about people warning him not to attend the event because of Fayose’s past criticisms. “Before I started coming here, some people called me and said, ‘We heard that you are going to Ayo Fayose’s birthday; Can’t you remember that he abused you?’ I said, ‘Thank you for reminding me,’” he said, drawing laughter from the crowd.
Their rocky relationship dates back to 2006 when Fayose was removed from office under controversial circumstances during Obasanjo’s presidency. The tension between them increased further in 2010, with both men trading harsh words at a public event in Osun State.
Fayose had also been a vocal critic of Obasanjo’s political commentary. In 2017, he pushed back against Obasanjo’s claim that his generation had failed Nigeria, saying, “Obasanjo has failed this country many times over, but not all members of his generation failed; There are shining lights in that generation that have served the nation well.”
In the lead-up to his birthday, Fayose visited Obasanjo at his Abeokuta residence, the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL), after sending emissaries including former Aviation Minister Osita Chidoka. The visit, which was shared on social media, showed the two men in good spirits, even playing the traditional game “Ayo Olopon” together.
Obasanjo shared that Fayose’s respectful approach and willingness to apologize—along with his wife’s humility—played a big role in his decision to forgive. “So, you have asked for forgiveness and as far as I’m concerned, you are forgiven; But the right lessons must be learnt,” he said.
He also praised Fayose’s impact on Nigerian politics and encouraged him to make peace with others he may have clashed with, while also letting go of past grievances. The moment marked a rare public reconciliation between two of Nigeria’s most outspoken political figures.
Why should we care about their reconciliation? Its all just political showmanship.
Why should we care about their reconciliation? Its all just political theatrics.
This reconciliation seems fishy, I bet theres an ulterior motive behind it.
I cant believe they made up, its all just for show!
Do you think this reconciliation is genuine or just for show? I have my doubts. #politics #Nigeria
Im not convinced that this reconciliation is genuine. Cant help but wonder about the ulterior motives behind it.
I cant believe they buried the hatchet! Wonder if its genuine or just for show. Time will tell.
Do you think the reconciliation between Obasanjo and Fayose is genuine or just for show? Im not convinced.
I cant believe they reconciled! Do you think its genuine or just for show? I have my doubts.
Interesting how political foes can become allies. Is this reconciliation genuine or just for show? Time will tell.