By DAYO ADESULU
A fresh political storm erupts after birthday remarks spark heated war of words
Focus Key Phrase: Obasanjo versus Fayose feud
Nigeria’s political landscape has never lacked drama, yet the Obasanjo versus Fayose feud has now taken a new and fiery dimension. What began as an uncomfortable moment at a birthday event has evolved into a public confrontation between former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose, leaving many Nigerians shocked by the tone, timing, and intensity of the exchange.
The dispute erupted after Obasanjo reportedly made unflattering comments about Fayose during the latter’s birthday celebration. Although the exact remarks were not captured on camera, witnesses hinted that the former president spoke in ways that Fayose considered both disrespectful and unprovoked. True to form, Fayose refused to let the matter slide.
However, instead of responding publicly at the event, Fayose chose to send Obasanjo a blistering “thank you” message—one that went far beyond sarcasm and descended into raw verbal combat. When Obasanjo received the message, his media aide, Kehinde Akinyemi, made it available to journalists, revealing the depth of the confrontation.
What followed was a sharp, pointed reply from the former president, completing what is now one of the most controversial political exchanges of the year.
Fayose Fires First: A Scathing Text Message Loaded With Insults
In the message sent shortly after the birthday event, Fayose accused Obasanjo of exhibiting irresponsible behaviour and went as far as comparing him to an animal that should be “kept in the zoo.” The message reads verbatim:
Ayo Fayose’s SMS to Obasanjo
“Dear Baba Obasanjo, I trust this meets you well. Your coming to my birthday party, I appreciate except for your very irresponsible comments at your age. You went so low but am not surprised because someone once said you are supposed be kept away in the zoo. Sincerely thats where you belong.
“I kept quiet or did not reply you at the function so that the world will know the difference between a sane and a mad man that you are. It is also obvious that you have also lost your sanity OR should I say is the heightened stage of dementia. Not to worry Baba., I shall set the records straight in due course of time. Lastly I shall appreciate if you return my money since you publicly admitted you received but Dangote brought u back.”
“Your leopard will never change his skin.”
The message spread quickly once released, triggering a wave of reactions across the country. Many Nigerians expressed disbelief at the harsh language directed at a former head of state. Others argued that Obasanjo’s long history of blunt public remarks often invites equally forceful comebacks.
Still, Fayose’s choice of words shocked even seasoned political observers.
Obasanjo Responds: A Calm but Cutting Rejoinder
Rather than trading insults line for line, Obasanjo responded with a shorter, restrained message—one that carried its own sting. His reply, shared through his media office, read:
Obasanjo’s Response
“Ayo, thanks for your “Thank You” message which undisguisedly revealed who and what you are, unchanged and unchangeable. Your money has been sent back through Foluso Adeagbo who brought it and in the same bag as he brought it unopened by me.”
—Obj.
The former president’s reaction was widely interpreted as an attempt to take the moral high ground, projecting himself as calm while subtly questioning Fayose’s character.
Political Analysts React as Nigerians Debate the Fallout
Analysts say the Obasanjo versus Fayose feud highlights deeper fractures within Nigeria’s political elite. Although both men have clashed in the past, this latest confrontation is unusually personal, emotional, and unfiltered. Some commentators believe internal political tensions ahead of the next election cycle may be fueling old grudges.
Others argue the incident reflects a growing culture of public disrespect among political leaders, where personal conflicts quickly spill into the public domain. With both figures known for their outspoken and often confrontational style, many Nigerians say the clash was only a matter of time.
A Conflict That May Shape Political Alliances
The fallout from this exchange is far from over. Fayose has already hinted that he will “set the records straight,” suggesting more revelations may surface. Obasanjo, on the other hand, appears determined to maintain a dignified posture — at least publicly.
What is clear is that the Obasanjo versus Fayose feud has reignited political conversations across the country. Whether the matter ends here or escalates further remains to be seen, but Nigerians will be watching closely.
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