Dr. Kayode Fayemi, former Governor of Ekiti State, claims that the apparent political conflicts are staged to entertain Nigerians.
Speaking at his 60th birthday thanksgiving ceremony at St. Martins’ Catholic Church in Isan Ekiti on Sunday, Fayemi downplayed the idea of antagonism between political personalities, underlining that many of the alleged rivalries exist solely on social media.
“So, all these things you read on social media are for your entertainment,” he said. “Many will wonder why Governor Segun Oni is here. During his birthday, I spent the entire day with him, and Governor Ayodele Fayose too would have been here without hesitation if he were around.”
He stated that irrespective of political differences, Ekiti politicians are not enemies.
He said, “The vision we have always had is a state that will not be separated by political divide. We might belong to different political parties, but there is one party that we collectively belong to—that is, the Ekiti Party, Ekiti Progressive Party—and our governor is carrying on with that.”
Speaking on his journey, Fayemi said his 60th birthday was a moment of gratitude and rededication to service. “I am a product of grace, and I have so many reasons to be thankful to God at 60,” he said.
“I also want to thank our governor for making me proud. It could have been otherwise. Things could have gone awry, but he is also a product of grace, and that is why, in spite of the travails that one might experience in the world of politics, we have a very cordial relationship based on mutual love and mutual respect.”
Prominent Nigerian politicians, led by President Bola Tinubu, celebrated the former governor and ex-minister for his contributions to governance.
Tinubu, in his tribute, commended Fayemi’s role in the 2013 merger of opposition parties that formed the All Progressives Congress.
“As a two-term governor, he (Fayemi) served the people amid severe economic challenges. There is no doubt that he made his mark in the governance of Ekiti State,” Tinubu stated. “Dr. Fayemi has exemplified service as an academic, author, administrator, and development expert. As he turns 60, I wish him continued health and fulfilment in the years ahead.”
Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, described Fayemi’s 60th birthday anniversary as a celebration of “a life dedicated to service and excellence.”
He said, “The only thing I am going to say is to thank you for your support and for handholding me. Thank you so much for all you have done for Ekiti people, and thank you so much for all that you have done for your mentees all over the world. I thank Erelu Bisi Fayemi and Folajimi for sharing you with us. We are proud of you; Ekiti people are immensely proud of your achievements; it has been 60 years of progressive impact.”
