Vice President Kashim Shettima eulogised former Ekiti State Governor, Mr Ayodele Fayose, on his 65th birthday celebration in Lagos, describing him as an uncommon Nigerian, distinguished by his courage, boldness, and unflinching honesty.
The Vice President spoke just as Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, and former President Olusegun Obasanjo hailed the celebrant at the well-attended event held at the 10 Degrees Event Centre, Ikeja.
Vice President 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 is 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 fulfilment,” the Vice President asserted.
In his remarks, Governor Oyebanji described former Governor Fayose as straightforward, authentic and bold, highlighting his clarity in politics.
Governor Oyebanji commended former Governor 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 the state.
He said, “I don’t have much to say, I will just adopt everything that has been told about you by Governor Wike. He has said everything about Governor Fayose. You are straightforward, authentic, and what you see is what you get. You are bold, and you are just like a straight line. Whatever you say, you mean everything, and I wish you the best 65th birthday.
“I am extremely grateful to you for your support of our administration in Ekiti State. Thank you for rising beyond partisanship to become a statesman; you have changed the nature and texture of politics”, Governor Oyebanji added.
In his goodwill message, the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, described Fayose as a dependable friend and fearless political figure. He commended him for his loyalty, consistency and commitment to his belief, saying these qualities have distinguished him in Nigerian politics.
In his response, former Governor Fayose, who was visibly elated by the tributes, thanked God for his journey so far, describing it as a product of divine grace. He also thanked the Vice President, Governor Oyebanji, the FCT Minister 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 also used the occasion to once again ask for forgiveness from anyone he might have offended in the course of his political activities.
He emphasised that genuine reconciliation and unity were crucial for the state’s and the country’s overall progress.
