Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has commented on the heated clash between former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Ekiti State governor Ayo Fayose, describing it as a showdown between “two deputy devils.”
The exchange escalated after Fayose reacted sharply to remarks Obasanjo reportedly made during Fayose’s 65th birthday celebration. In a post on X, Sowore highlighted the intensity of Fayose’s response, noting its particularly biting tone. He wrote, “Obasanjo versus Fayose when two deputy devils jam each other. The way Fayose told Obasanjo he ‘belongs to the zoo’ after those unpleasant comments at his birthday was something else entirely.”
The feud began when Fayose sent a message to Obasanjo, framed as a “thank you” note, which was later shared publicly by Obasanjo’s aide, Kehinde Akinyemi. Rather than expressing gratitude, the message scathingly criticized Obasanjo’s behavior at the event.
Fayose’s note read in part: “Dear Baba Obasanjo, I appreciate your presence at my birthday, except for your very irresponsible comments at your age. You went so low, but am not surprised because someone once said you belong in the zoo. I stayed silent at the function to show the difference between a sane and a mad man. It is also obvious you have lost your sanity. Lastly, please return the money you publicly admitted receiving. Your leopard will never change his skin.”
Obasanjo responded calmly, acknowledging Fayose’s message while returning the money through Foluso Adeagbo. He wrote, “Ayo, thanks for your ‘Thank You’ message which undisguisedly revealed who and what you are, unchanged and unchangeable. Your money has been sent back in the same bag it was brought, unopened by me.”
The confrontation has drawn widespread attention and sparked debate on social media, with many Nigerians analyzing the sharp language and the political rivalry it exposes. Observers note that while Obasanjo remained composed, Fayose’s direct and unapologetic style has reinforced his reputation as a bold, outspoken politician, reflecting the ongoing tensions that often define Nigeria’s political scene.
