Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has revealed that he was pushed to the brink of physical confrontation with former President Olusegun Obasanjo during his 65th birthday celebration.
Speaking in a new interview, Fayose said he attempted to reconcile with the former president before the event and reached out through a mutual friend.
“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 stressed that the gesture was not an apology, insisting that he did nothing wrong.
“I did not offend him. He was the one that removed me from office. If anybody should apologise, it is him,” Fayose said.
Says He Gave Obasanjo $20,000 for Travel
The former governor said Obasanjo welcomed him into his home before the event and even agreed to attend despite having another engagement in Rwanda. Fayose added that he personally handled travel logistics and provided $20,000 to facilitate the trip.
“How can you accept somebody’s money and come and be spiting that person?” he asked.
Claims Obasanjo Took Over Event With One-Hour Speech
According to Fayose, tensions escalated when Obasanjo insisted on giving the final remarks at the birthday celebration, even though the Vice-President was billed to close the event.
He said Obasanjo’s speech, which lasted for over an hour, contained veiled jabs and remarks he found disrespectful.
“How do you say such things to a man on his 65th birthday?” Fayose said.
He added that he became extremely angry during the speech.
“I was enraged. I felt like taking the mic from Obasanjo’s hand and hitting it on his head. But because the Vice-President was present, I kept my cool,” he said.
Says Obasanjo Has No Interest in Reconciliation
Fayose said his efforts to mend fences were genuine but that Obasanjo’s actions showed he was not interested in peace.
“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 concluded.