Political fights are for public entertainment — Fayemi

Former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has dismissed the belief that Nigerian politicians are bitter rivals, saying their perceived fights are exaggerated and largely staged to entertain the public.

Speaking at his 60th birthday thanksgiving service at St. Martins’ Catholic Church in Isan Ekiti on Sunday, Fayemi described political disagreements as mere theatrics, particularly 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 was around.”

Fayemi stressed that, despite political differences, Ekiti politicians are not enemies but remain committed to the state’s progress.

“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,” he added.

Reflecting on his political journey and milestone birthday, Fayemi expressed deep gratitude.

“I am a product of grace, and I have so many reasons to be thankful to God at 60,” he said.

President Bola Tinubu, in a tribute, praised Fayemi’s role in Nigerian politics, particularly his contributions to the 2013 merger that formed the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“As a two-term governor, he served the people amid severe economic challenges. There is no doubt that he made his mark in the governance of Ekiti State,” Tinubu stated.

READ ALSO:Why some leaders suffer withdrawal syndrome after leaving office, by Fayemi

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, commended Fayemi’s leadership, saying, “We are proud of you. Ekiti people are immensely proud of your achievements; it has been 60 years of progressive impact.”

Meanwhile, dignitaries at the event included former Governor Segun Oni, Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye, and Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Adeoye Aribasoye.