Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has declared that he has forgiven former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, bringing their long-running political feud to an end.

Obasanjo made the remark on Saturday during Fayose’s 65th birthday celebration in Lagos. A clip of the event was shared by online television platform CityEdge.

Speaking at the event, Obasanjo said some people had asked why he chose to attend Fayose’s birthday despite their past disagreements. He said he told them he appreciated the reminder but decided to honour the invitation regardless.

The rift between both men began after Fayose’s removal as Ekiti governor in 2006, an action widely believed to have been influenced by Obasanjo. Their clashes continued over the years, including a public confrontation in Okuku, Osun State, in 2010, where both reportedly exchanged harsh words.

Fayose also regularly criticised Obasanjo on national matters, including a 2017 statement where he accused the former president of making comments that could worsen the country’s economic frustrations.

The reconciliation started last Sunday when Fayose visited Obasanjo at his residence in Abeokuta ahead of the birthday. The visit followed emissaries sent by Fayose, including former Aviation Minister Osita Chidoka, to initiate peace talks. Photos shared online showed both men playing Ayo Olopon and interacting warmly.

At the birthday event, Obasanjo narrated how Fayose and his wife appealed to him during the reconciliation process. He added that once they admitted their mistakes and requested forgiveness, he had no reason not to forgive.

Obasanjo praised Fayose for his contributions in politics and urged him to reach out to others he may have offended. He also advised him to forgive those who might have offended him.

“So, you have asked for forgiveness and, as far as I am concerned, you are forgiven. But the right lessons must be learnt,” Obasanjo said.