Ogun State monarch, the Olu of Orile Kemta, Oba Adetokunbo Tejuosho, has strongly condemned former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, for a controversial message he sent to former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Oba Tejuosho described Fayose’s remarks as “reckless, uncultured, and unguarded,” warning the ex-governor that he would face the consequences of his actions.
The incident stems from comments made by Fayose on Monday, when he criticised Obasanjo’s speech at Fayose’s own 65th birthday celebration in Lagos. In his statement, Fayose described the 89-year-old former president as irresponsible and even suggested he “belongs in the zoo,” triggering nationwide reactions.
Oba Tejuosho, in a statement titled “A Royal Rebuke to Ayo Fayose,” faulted the ex-governor’s message as unbecoming and disrespectful, especially towards a former military head of state and two-term president who served Nigeria from 1999 to 2007. The monarch further emphasised Obasanjo’s stature as a global statesman and an influential figure in Yorubaland.
According to the Olu of Orile Kemta, Fayose’s message reflected arrogance and moral confusion. “Mr. Fayose, your recent message to our Baba Obasanjo was not courage; it was simply a reckless and unguarded noise,” Oba Tejuosho said. He added that the ex-governor had displayed haughtiness without cause, insulting a man whose contributions to Nigeria and Africa are well-recognised.
The monarch’s response highlighted the difference between bravery and recklessness. “There is a total difference between being courageous and full of hardiness, as Baba rightly said at the event of your 65th birthday,” Oba Tejuosho said. He noted that Fayose’s remarks ignored the respect due to elders and leaders who have served the country and the people.
The Olu also invoked traditional Yoruba wisdom, warning that disrespect to elders carries consequences. “You throw stones at a colossus while standing barefoot on a hill he built. You spit toward the sky, forgetting that the heavens will send the rain back upon your own face tomorrow,” Oba Tejuosho cautioned, alluding to the law of karma.
The controversy began during Fayose’s 65th birthday celebration, attended by various political figures. Obasanjo, known for his outspoken and sometimes critical speeches, reportedly addressed issues regarding leadership and governance during the event. Fayose, who has a history of being outspoken and confrontational with political opponents, responded sharply, criticising the former president and questioning his relevance.
Fayose’s statement was widely circulated on social media and drew reactions from political analysts, traditional rulers, and the general public. Many Nigerians considered the language used by Fayose as inappropriate for addressing an elder and former head of state, while some of his supporters defended his right to free speech and criticism.
Oba Tejuosho’s intervention represents one of the strongest condemnations from a traditional ruler against Fayose’s remarks. By invoking cultural values and respect for elders, the monarch framed the controversy as more than a political disagreement, emphasising moral and societal norms in Yoruba culture.
In Yoruba culture, elders are highly respected for their experience, wisdom, and role in maintaining societal order. Oba Tejuosho’s reaction highlighted the cultural importance of showing deference to senior figures, particularly those who have contributed significantly to national development.
“Your action was a restless echo of a man who forgets that elders are the pillars of our civilization,” the monarch stated. He stressed that disrespecting an elder, especially someone with the stature of Obasanjo, is not only morally wrong but also socially harmful.
Oba Tejuosho reminded Nigerians that leaders like Obasanjo have devoted decades to public service, including military service, governance, and diplomatic engagement across Africa. “You dare speak to a general while standing on ground his service, sweat, discipline, and sacrifices helped secure,” he said.
The incident has reignited debates about political discourse and respect for elders in Nigeria. Analysts have noted that while free speech and political criticism are essential in a democracy, cultural and societal norms must guide public statements, particularly when directed at respected figures.
The controversy also reflects the tension between older political generations and emerging leaders. Obasanjo, having served as both a military ruler and a civilian president, represents a political establishment, while Fayose has built a career on being outspoken and at times combative with the political elite.
Following the Olu’s statement, social media platforms have been awash with discussions about respect, governance, and political behaviour. Some users praised Oba Tejuosho for upholding cultural values and defending the legacy of an elder statesman, while others debated the line between criticism and disrespect in political discourse.
