You’re an Uncommon Nigerian, Shetima, Oyebanji, Others Eulogise Fayose at 65th 

Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti 

Vice-President Kashim Shettima, weekend, eulogised former Ekiti State governor, Mr Ayodele Fayose, at his 65th birthday celebration, in Lagos, describing him as an uncommon Nigerian, distinguished by his courage, boldness and unflinching honesty.

Shettima spoke just as the Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, hailed the celebrant at an event held at 10 Degrees Event Centre, Ikeja, Lagos. 

Shettima, who  commended Fayose for his fearlessness, political consistency, and his unwavering courage, said those qualities have set him apart in Nigeria’s political landscape

The vice-president maintained that his readiness to speak truth to power, regardless of whose interest was affected has made him one of the  most distinctive figures of the Fourth Republic.

“Governor Fayose has given the media enough headlines to last several election cycles, and sometimes it feels as though the cameras chase him even when he is simply minding his business. 

“He is a very colourful politician, one of the best we have in the system. He is a man who acts from a place of deep conviction, a man whose passion refuses to be contained, and whose sincerity, whether one agrees with him or not. 

“It is part of the charm, part of the myth, and certainly part of the reason Nigeria will always have a special corner reserved for him in its political climate. 

“Today, as we gather to honour a truly remarkable Nigerian, I join his family, his friends, and countless well-wishers across our nation, and on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in celebrating this milestone. Your Excellency, may this 65th birthday usher you into a season of renewed strength and deeper fulfillment,” he asserted.

In his remarks, Oyebanji described Fayose as straight foreword, authentic and bold, highlighting  his clarity in politics.

He commended Fayose for rising above partisanship to support his government and the development of Ekiti State, stressing that his contributions have changed the nature and texture of politics in Ekiti State. 

In his goodwill message, Wike, described Fayose as a dependable friend and fearless political figure, commending him for his loyalty, consistency and commitment to his belief, all of which he said had distinguished him in Nigerian politics.

In his response, Fayose, thanked God for his journey so far, describing it as a product of divine grace. He also thanked Shettima, Oyebanji, Wike and other dignitaries for honouring him at the event. 

While noting that his life’s journey had been full of diverse experiences and important lessons that had shaped his character and strengthened his resolve to serve humanity, Fayose used the occasion to ask for forgiveness from anyone he might have offended in the course of his political activities.

He stressed that genuine reconciliation and unity were essential for the progress of the state and the country at large.

Other dignitaries at the event included former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Ondo State Governor, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa,  Deputy Senate President, Barau  Jibrin, Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, former Ekiti State Governors, Niyi Adebayo and Kayode Fayemi; and Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, among others.