By Ola ‘Kiya, Reporting
A fresh rift has erupted in Nigeria’s political circle after former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, sent a scathing “thank-you” message to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, accusing him of irresponsibility and even suggesting he “belongs in the zoo”.
The message, sent via SMS and released to journalists in Abeokuta on Monday by Obasanjo’s Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, has stirred shock across the South-West, where it is considered a grave cultural offence for a younger person to publicly insult an elder—especially one old enough to be his father.
In the message, Fayose wrote:
“Dear Baba Obasanjo, I trust this meets you well. Your coming to my birthday party, I appreciate except for your very irresponsible comments at your age. You went so low but I’m not surprised because someone once said you are supposed to be kept away in the zoo. Sincerely, that’s where you belong.”
He continued by alleging that the former President was suffering from “heightened dementia”, adding:
“I kept quiet or did not reply you at the function so that the world will know the difference between a sane and a mad man that you are. Not to worry Baba, I shall set the records straight in due course.”
Fayose also demanded the return of money he claimed Obasanjo had publicly admitted receiving, writing:
“I shall appreciate if you return my money since you publicly admitted you received but Dangote brought u back.”
He ended the message with:
“Your leopard will never change his skin.”
Political observers say the tone of the message crosses long-held Yoruba cultural boundaries that emphasise respect for elders regardless of political disagreements. One Yoruba affairs analyst who declined to be named said:
“No matter the provocation, it is an abomination in Yoruba land for a younger man to rain abuses on an elder. This is beyond politics; it touches on our core values.”
Responding tersely, Obasanjo 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 through Foluso Adeagbo who brought it and in the same bag as he brought it, unopened by me.”
The exchange, now circulating widely on social media, has further polarised supporters of both men, with many calling for restraint and urging leaders to preserve decorum in public discourse. Akinyemi confirmed that the former President considered the matter closed after returning the alleged funds.
The development adds a new chapter to the long, turbulent relationship between the two political figures, both known for their outspoken personalities.
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