Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has publicly reconciled with former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose, declaring his forgiveness for Fayose’s past political transgressions and criticisms.
At Fayose’s 65th birthday celebration in Lagos on Saturday, Obasanjo openly spoke about their long-time feud and shared that they’ve now made peace. He forgave and instructed Fayose to “go and sin no more”. The public reconciliation follows a recent private meeting between the two politicians in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The political feud between the two PDP heavyweights dates back nearly two decades, characterized by public insults and political maneuvers.
The seed of discord was reportedly sown in 2006, when Fayose was removed as Governor of Ekiti State, an action believed to have been orchestrated by then-President Obasanjo.
Notably, in 2010, the two men engaged in a reported verbal altercation at a public forum. Fayose later openly challenged Obasanjo’s position on national issues, once advising the elder statesman to speak only for himself when he said his generation had failed the nation.
Obasanjo confirmed that Fayose initiated the reconciliation process by sending several emissaries, including former Aviation Minister Osita Chidoka, before Fayose felt confident enough to visit Obasanjo in Abeokuta last week.
The former President acknowledged that forgiveness was granted after the former Governor and his wife admitted fault.
So, you have asked for forgiveness and as far as I’m concerned you are forgiven. But the right lessons must be learnt
Obasanjo advised Fayose to extend the gesture of reconciliation by reaching out to others he may have offended.
Leave a comment