Former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, says the seeming fights among politicians are not real but only to entertain Nigerians.

Speaking during his 60th birthday thanksgiving service at St. Martins’ Catholic Church, Isan Ekiti, on Sunday, Fayemi downplayed the perception of animosity between political figures, emphasising that many of the supposed rivalries exist only 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.”

He said irrespective of political political differences, Ekiti politcians are not enemies.

He said, “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.”

Reflecting on his journey, Fayemi said his 60th birthday was a moment of gratitude and rededication to service. “I am a product of grace, and I have so many reasons to be thankful to God at 60,” he said.

“I also want to thank our governor for making me proud. it could have been otherwise. Things could have gone awry, but he is also a product of grace and that is why in spite of the travails that one might experience in the world of politics, we have a very cordial relationship based on mutual love and mutual respect.”

Prominent Nigerians, led by President Bola Tinubu, celebrated the former governor and ex-minister for his contributions to governance.

 Tinubu, in his tribute, commended Fayemi’s role in the 2013 merger of opposition parties that formed the All Progressives Congress.

“As a two-term governor, he (Fayemi) served the people amid severe economic challenges. There is no doubt that he made his mark in the governance of Ekiti State,” Tinubu stated. “Dr. Fayemi has exemplified service as an academic, author, administrator, and development expert. As he turns 60, I wish him continued health and fulfillment in the years ahead.”

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, described Fayemi’s 60th birthday as a celebration of “a life dedicated to service and excellence.”

He said, “The only thing I am going to say is to thank you for your support and for handholding me. Thank you so much for all you have done for Ekiti people, thank you so much for all that you have done for your mentees all over the world. I thank Erelu Bisi Fayemi and Folajimi for sharing you with us. We are proud of you, Ekiti people are immensely proud of your achievements; it has been 60 years of progressive impact.”

The event attracted dignitaries including the first civilian Governor of Ekiti State, Niyi Adebayo; former Governor Segun Oni; Deputy Governor, Mrs. Monisade Afuye; wife of the Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji; Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Adeoye Aribasoye; former Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Prof. Modupe Adelabu; and former Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Chief Oladokun.

Others present were former Minister of Education, Prof. Tunde Adeniran; Chairman, CAVISTA Holdings, Mr. John Olajide; Chairman, Afenifere Renewal Group, Hon. Wale Osun; APC Chairman in Ekiti State, Sola Elesin; serving and former members of the National Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, and members of the State House of Assembly.

Former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has stated that rivalries among Nigerian politicians are not real.

According to him, the rivalries are staged just to entertain the citizens.

Fayemi made the revelation in Isan Ekiti on Sunday, during his 60th birthday thanksgiving service at St. Martin’s Catholic Church.

While addressing those who were surprised to see some of his political opponents at the event, Fayemi noted that political fights among politicians are not genuine.

He said, “All these things you read on social media are just for your entertainment. Many will wonder why the former governor Segun Oni is present here. I spent the entire day with him during his birthday.

“Governor Ayodele Fayose would have been here too without hesitation if he was around.

“The vision we have always had is a state that will not be separated by the political divide. We might be members of different political parties, but there’s one party that we collectively belong to, which is ‘Ekiti Progressive Party’, and our governor is carrying on with that.

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

Former Special Adviser to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari on Political Matters, Senator Babafemi Ojudu has joined the league of political leaders celebrating the 60th years anniversary of Dr Kayode Fayemi, former Governor of Ekiti State.

Ojudu and Fayemi have shared long political history from the days in the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) and membership of the progressive political family from the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Two two eminent politicians from Ekiti State have since parted ways due to ideological differences.

As the former Minister of Mines Development under Buhari turns 60, Senator Ojudu took to his Facebook Page on Saturday to reflect on the journey taken by both leaders in what he described as the daunting struggle to rescue Ekiti from the clutches of brute governance, political assassinations and the theft of public resources.

 

In the message titled: “60th Birthday Greetings to Dr. Kayode Fayemi”, the former presidential aide wrote, “As you celebrate your 60th birthday, I take a moment to reflect on the journey we once shared in the daunting struggle to rescue Ekiti from the clutches of brute governance, political assassinations and the theft of public resources.

 

“Those were defining moments—marked by conviction, courage, and an unyielding commitment to the principles of democracy and good governance.

 

“Although we have since taken different paths, I recognise the milestones you have reached and the impact you have made and your continuous strive to remain relevant in our nation’s affairs.

“Turning 60 is a remarkable landmark—one that invites reflection, gratitude, and a renewed sense of purpose,” Ojudu noted.

Praying for the celebrant, the author of “Gorilla Journalist’ wishes Dr Fayemi good health, long life, and continued fulfillment in the years ahead.

“May this new decade bring you wisdom, peace, and greater opportunities to contribute to the good of society,” he added.