Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, has revealed that he was so angered by ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo’s remarks during his 65th birthday celebration that he momentarily felt like grabbing the microphone from him and striking him with it.
Fayose made the disclosure in a recent interview where he recounted events leading up to the birthday ceremony held in Lagos.
At the event, Obasanjo commented on their longstanding political feud, describing Fayose as “not the best” among his protégés, even while acknowledging his political achievements.
Fayose said two weeks before the celebration, he made efforts to reconcile with political associates he had previously fallen out with.
“Whatever differences we have had in the past, let’s put it behind. If I have offended you, if you have offended me, let us put it behind,” he said.
He explained that he contacted Obasanjo through a mutual friend, Osita, who provided the former president’s phone number.
Fayose stressed that reaching out to Obasanjo was not an act of apology.
“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 said.
He said Obasanjo later hosted him warmly and even confirmed he would attend the birthday event despite having another engagement in Rwanda.
Fayose added that he made financial arrangements for Obasanjo’s travel at the former president’s request.
“We took pictures together. All in good faith,” he said.
“I changed $20,000 and gave it to him. How can you accept somebody’s money and come and be spiting that person?”
Fayose said he became uncomfortable when Obasanjo insisted on being the last speaker at the ceremony, instead of the vice-president.
“Baba said he would be the one to speak last. I became suspicious,” he said.
He said Obasanjo later instructed the moderator to call the vice-president before him, after which he asked Fayose and his wife to stand beside him as he delivered a speech lasting over an hour.
Fayose said the speech was laced with subtle digs and unflattering remarks.
“How do you say such things to a man on his 65th birthday?” he asked.
He added that Obasanjo’s comments left him deeply infuriated.
“I was enraged. I felt like taking the mic from Obasanjo’s hand and hitting it on his head. This is being sincere,” he narrated.
“But to show maturity, not by age, and the love I have for myself and the presence of the vice-president, I just kept my cool.”
Fayose said his effort to make peace was genuine but Obasanjo’s conduct showed he had no interest in reconciliation.
“If I knew this was how it would end, what do I need Obasanjo for? Am I contesting election? Do I need his validation? No,” he said.
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