Former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi has revealed that he played a key role in facilitating a brief interaction between former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and President Bola Tinubu during the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV in Vatican City in May 2025.
Fayemi's Account of the Encounter
Speaking in an interview with Edmund Obilo, a video of which was uploaded on YouTube on Thursday, May 21, Fayemi disclosed that he persuaded Obi to approach Tinubu for a handshake. According to Fayemi, Obi initially hesitated due to concerns that the media might misinterpret the gesture. The former governor explained that he encouraged Obi to set aside political differences and extend a courteous greeting to the president.
Background of the Meeting
The issue first came to public attention on May 18, 2025, when Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu's special adviser on information and strategy, shared a photograph on X (formerly Twitter) showing Tinubu, Fayemi, and Obi together at the Vatican event. The image quickly sparked discussions about the nature of their interaction and the underlying political dynamics.
Fayemi, who served as governor of Ekiti State from 2018 to 2022, emphasized that the handshake was a simple act of civility and did not signify any political alignment or agreement. He noted that such gestures are common in diplomatic settings and should not be overanalyzed.
Reactions and Implications
The disclosure has generated mixed reactions from political observers and the public. Some have praised Fayemi for promoting unity and decorum among political figures, while others remain skeptical about the motivations behind the interaction. The Labour Party has not officially commented on the matter, but sources close to Obi suggest that he values respectful engagements with political opponents.
This incident highlights the ongoing efforts to bridge divides in Nigeria's political landscape, especially as the country approaches the next election cycle. Fayemi's account serves as a reminder of the importance of personal relationships in politics, even among rivals.
