Obasanjo Forgives Fayose, Ending 19-Year Political Rift

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has publicly declared that he has forgiven former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose, effectively putting an end to a political rift that spanned nearly two decades.

The announcement was made by Obasanjo on Saturday while speaking at the well-attended 65th birthday celebration of Fayose in Lagos.

In a viral video of his address, the former President stated that the occasion called for celebration, reflection, and correction.

He openly acknowledged the strained nature of their relationship, noting that Fayose could not approach him directly to invite him to the event, and had to send a political intermediary, Osita Chidoka.

Addressing Fayose directly, Obasanjo conceded the former governor’s achievements but emphasized the need for reconciliation and learning:

“You are not the best of my political children, but you have made achievements that must not be ignored. Even to get me to come here, you could not approach me directly. You sent Osita (Chidoka) to come and sound me out… So, you have asked for forgiveness, and as far as I’m concerned, you are forgiven. But the right lessons must be learnt.”

The rift between the two prominent Nigerian politicians had been ongoing since 2006 and had occasionally resulted in public insults and political antagonism.