Dr. Kayode Fayemi, former Governor of Ekiti State, has dismissed the notion that political conflicts among politicians are genuine, asserting that they serve more as entertainment for the public than as serious enmities.
Speaking at his 60th birthday thanksgiving service at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Isan Ekiti on Sunday, Fayemi emphasized that political rivalries, often exaggerated on social media, should not be mistaken for deep-seated animosity.
“So, all these things you read on social media are just for your entertainment,” he said.
To illustrate his point, he noted the presence of former Governor Segun Oni at the event. “Many may wonder why Governor Segun Oni is here. On his birthday, I spent the whole day with him. If Governor Ayodele Fayose were around, he would have been here as well,” he added.
Fayemi stressed that, regardless of political affiliations, politicians—especially those from Ekiti State—do not see each other as enemies.
“Our vision has always been to build a united Ekiti, beyond political divisions. While we may belong to different parties, we all share a common platform—the Ekiti Party, Ekiti Progressive Party—and our governor is continuing that vision,” he said.
Reflecting on his political journey and milestone birthday, Fayemi expressed gratitude.
“I am a product of grace, and I have countless reasons to be thankful to God at 60,” he said.
He also praised Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, commending him for maintaining a cordial political environment.
“Things could have gone differently, but he is also a product of grace. That is why, despite the challenges of politics, we share a relationship built on mutual love and respect,” he said.
Fayemi’s contributions to Nigerian politics were widely acknowledged during his celebration, with President Bola Tinubu among those who paid tribute.
Tinubu praised Fayemi’s role in shaping modern Nigerian politics, particularly his involvement in the 2013 merger that led to the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The event was attended by prominent political figures, including former Governor Segun Oni, Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye, Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly Adeoye Aribasoye, and Ekiti’s first civilian Governor, Niyi Adebayo.
