Obasanjo, Fayose Should Let Wisdom Prevail

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By Editorial Team

The ongoing exchange between former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has dominated public discussion in the last few days. Their disagreement, revived during Fayose’s 65th birthday celebration, has unfortunately overshadowed the disturbing security lapses that led to the abduction of schoolchildren in the North. At a time when national unity and focus are needed, two prominent Yoruba leaders have chosen the path of personal confrontation.

The truth is simple, both Obasanjo and Fayose handled this matter poorly. Instead of using the birthday event as an opportunity to finally settle a long-standing rift, they allowed old wounds to resurface in ways that do not honour their status or the expectations of the public.

Nigerians have not forgotten the bitter history between the two. The events that led to Fayose’s removal as governor in 2006 have always been tied to Obasanjo, who was President at the time. That episode created a deep divide and although both men later exchanged pleasantries in public, many knew the reconciliation was shallow.

Still, when Fayose visited Obasanjo recently and extended a birthday invitation, many Nigerians believed that the past had finally been buried. If Obasanjo still had reservations or personal concerns, addressing them privately would have been the dignified approach. Instead, he chose to make critical remarks publicly on Fayose’s special day and the tone was clearly meant to embarrass him. It was unnecessary, avoidable and unbefitting of someone regarded as an elder statesman.

Fayose, on his part, managed the situation with maturity by not reacting immediately. That restraint was commendable. But the message he later sent to Obasanjo did not reflect the patience and courtesy expected under Yoruba Omoluabi values. If he felt wronged, a respectful visit or a carefully worded public statement would have served him better. Leadership carries a responsibility to respond wisely even when provoked.

It is important for both men to remember that their words shape public behaviour. When elder statesmen turn personal issues into public drama, they weaken the moral authority needed to guide younger leaders. Their conduct in this matter failed to promote peace, dialogue and reconciliation. It also distracted attention from pressing national issues such as insecurity. Nigerians deserve leaders who elevate public discourse, not those who deepen old quarrels.

Fayose has every reason to acknowledge God’s role in his political journey. Returning as governor after his earlier removal was, in many eyes, a sign of vindication. Holding on to old grievances serves no purpose. Obasanjo, as one of Nigeria’s most influential figures, has even greater responsibility to model maturity. Public humiliation of a guest on his birthday does not represent Yoruba ethics or the behaviour expected of an elder.

This disagreement should not be allowed to fester any further. Both leaders know that Yoruba culture values respect, patience and moderation in speech. The proverb says, “Igba mi oro awa ko ni si aye, igba mi aye awa ko ni si oro,” meaning there is a time to speak and a time to remain silent. In this situation, both men spoke when silence would have brought more honour.

Nigeria is facing serious challenges. The abduction of schoolchildren, rising insecurity, economic pressure on households, and worsening social tension require the attention of national figures. Leaders must choose their battles wisely and ensure their actions do not distract from urgent national concerns.

Obasanjo and Fayose must allow wisdom to prevail. It is time for both men to show leadership, close this chapter quietly and redirect attention to matters that truly affect the lives of Nigerians. At their age and status, they owe the country better.