Former Ekiti State governor Ayo Fayose has disclosed that former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s remarks at his 65th‑birthday celebration left him so incensed that he briefly considered snatching the microphone from Obasanjo and striking him with it.
In a recent interview, Fayose recounted the events surrounding the Lagos gathering, explaining that Obasanjo had described him as “not the best” of his political protégés while also acknowledging his achievements.
Fayose said that two weeks before the birthday, he attempted to mend fences with several political adversaries, including Obasanjo, by reaching out through a mutual acquaintance named Osita. He emphasized that his call was not an apology, noting, “I did not offend him.
He was the one that removed me from office. If anybody should apologise, it is him.” According to Fayose, Obasanjo subsequently invited him to his home, promised to attend the celebration despite a prior commitment in Rwanda, and asked for travel assistance, which Fayose provided in the amount of $20,000.
The former governor became uneasy when Obasanjo insisted on speaking after the vice‑president, a departure from the planned order of speakers. Fayose claims that Obasanjo later instructed the moderator to call the vice‑president first, then demanded that Fayose and his wife stand beside him while he delivered a speech that lasted “one hour, 14 minutes.”
Fayose said the speech contained veiled attacks on him, which he felt were inappropriate for a birthday celebration.At that moment, Fayose admitted he felt a surge of anger and imagined taking the microphone from Obasanjo’s hand and hitting him with it. He restrained himself, citing the presence of the vice‑president and a desire to act maturely.
Fayose concluded that his attempt at reconciliation had been met with disrespect, stating, “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 suggested that Obasanjo’s behaviour indicated a lack of genuine interest in peace.
