Connect with us

Politics

Between Governor Abiodun and a political merchant

Published

3 years ago

on

Gov. Abiodun

Between Governor Abiodun and a political merchant

By Bola Ahmed

 

 

 

 

 

If anyone needs any evidence regarding how politically charged Year 2022 promises to be, such a person need not go further than the notoriously crude piece titled “How to make 4million enemies in 4 years: The story of Dapo Abiodun’s infamous loss of re-election bid” to analyse the character and temper of the battles and shenanigans that lie ahead. Political merchants suborning hack and hired writers to pollute the country’s waters would stop at nothing to discredit the few people occupying public office who see it as a call to service, a sacred historical duty.

 

 

 

 

 

In the widely circulated piece in question replete with vile abuse, innuendoes and blatant illogic, one “Dr Quadri Ola from Ward 8, Ijasi Ijebu-Ode” poured invectives on the amiable governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, saying that he will lose his re-election bid because he failed to share out Ogun State’s resources to cronies. In language, tone and intendment, the piece under reference is the work of a demagogue, yet there is a need to respond if only to make the writer see how lucidly he has advertised his utter hollowness.

 

 

 

 

 

 

According to Dr.Ola, Governor Abiodun had no political structure in Ogun State prior to being governor, was wrong (please don’t laugh!) to have been found eating shortly after escaping from the MKO Abiola stadium in the heady days leading to his election, and has already alienated many political supporters by not awarding them positions. Hear him: “What did Dapo Abiodun do as soon as he was sworn in? He first of all cut away all the boys and ladies who stuck out their necks and risked their lived for him. AKA Dickson was messed up and handed over a mere special assistant (sic). Myself was thrown out and not given a single appointment or compensation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

I have had to return to my banking career. Peju Shote had to struggle to get a meagre special adviser. I hear uncle Shubby was never given an appointment till date.” For good measure, let us add this one: “Otunba Allen was given an empty shell much much later into the administration. Taiwo Owolabi Apata who I can attest to started the Dapo Abiodun campaign movement fire (sic) has not been given one single appointment till date. Maybe he wanted something too high as the DG Lands, but typical of Dapo Abiodun, Apata was disgraced shunned and lost all his money spent on Dapo’s campaign.

 

 

 

 

 

I remember a certain Michael who donated 2 vehicles, 1000 shirts and 1000 caps to the campaign of Dapo Abiodun never got a single Governorship handshake or a single contract from SUBEB to compensate the innocent man.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

It needs no special skills to discover that this is a thoroughly disreputable, sneaky individual. In a political environment like ours, you are bound to see people like that who wear different robes because they are afraid of their shadows and cannot come out in the open.

 

 

 

 

 

They make spurious allegations with intent to distract the governor from his focus on developmental projects and programmes. They do their level best to draw the wheel of progress backwards. As everyone knows, in the history of governance, there is no law that says that whoever supports an aspirant is automatically entitled to an appointment. Our Dr. Ola Quadri does not of course pretend to be a patriot, one who supported Governor Dapo Abiodun’s aspiration because he wanted progress for his community. He does not care whether or not the governor is making life better for the people: his god is his belly. It is certainly unfortunate for the author of the acerbic piece to say that he worked for the governor but was not compensated. Apparently he is one of those people who believe that public office is an opportunity to enrich oneself. Our writer appeals to corruptive tendencies throughout his piece of sophistry. He says that the governor ought to have shared the finances of the state out as political largesse.

 

 

 

 

 

 

There is no part of the world where a governor can employ all the people who worked for him, and it says something about the character of the author that he was not considered for any appointment. More important, governance is about service to the people and not political gratification. It is about meeting the expectations of the populace whose very survival depends on politicians fulfilling campaign promises.

 

 

 

 

 

Any governor who wishes to make a change must look for people who are qualified, competent and with track record: people who share the same vision and can help in actualizing specific targets. Thus, whereas the governor could not have stopped anyone from supporting or voting for him, it would be foolhardy for him to turn public office into an all-comers’ affair, what the Yoruba call “iru wa, ogiri wa.” It is not denied that some people may feel that their interests were not adequately taken care of, as they were given lesser positions than they desired. But the point is that like the Biblical parable on talents illustrates, people who utilize the little positions given to them effectively, honestly and diligently stand a chance to eventually get bigger positions. Talents properly utilized will always. If truly the writer is a party person, there are legitimate avenues for ventilating his grievances, to which he is certainly entitled. But he chose to dance in the market square of social media because his intentions are not pure; because his motive is perverse and because he has no sense of self-worth.

 

 

 

 

 

It is instructive that “Dr Quadri Ola” has not accused Governor Abiodun of non-performance: the evidence of critical and effective interventions in the lives of the Ogun people is weighty and palpable. He did not accuse the governor of cornering the wealth of the Ogun people for himself. His grouse is political patronage. He lacked the courage to use his own surname bit crafted a pseudonym to mask his pernicious objectives, casting aspersions on the integrity of the governor. His entitlement mentality is beyond compare. He should be ignored.

 

 

 

 

 

 

* Mr Ahmed writes from Odogbolu, Ogun State

Related Topics:

Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact [email protected]

Continue Reading
Advertisement

religion

Prophecy for 2025: A Year of Vengeance, Harvest, and Divine Shifts By Pro. Kingsley Aitafo

Published

2 days ago

on

December 21, 2024

By

Prophet Kingsley Aitafo's Prophecy Fulfilled: Alhaji Muyideen Bello Passes Away

Prophecy for 2025: A Year of Vengeance, Harvest, and Divine Shifts By Pro. Kingsley Aitafo

 

 

Sahara Weekly Reports That Prophet Kingsley Aitafo, under the grace and spiritual leadership of His Eminence Rev. Pastor Samuel Belehou Oshoffa, founder of the Celestial Church of Christ, has unveiled 25 prophecies for the year 2025. These revelations call for vigilance, prayer, and alignment with divine purpose. Below is the detailed list of the prophecies:

 

 

1. A Year of Divine Justice

2025 will be a year of vengeance upon the wicked and a season of abundant harvest for the righteous. This is a time for reflection and spiritual alignment.

 

2. Weather Disasters to Pray Against

The world must unite in prayers against severe weather disasters, including excessive winds, water overflow, floods, earthquakes, and tsunamis. These natural calamities threaten to disrupt lives and properties globally.

 

3. A Major Technological Advancement

WhatsApp is predicted to receive a significant upgrade, potentially integrating email functionalities. This innovation will redefine digital communication.

 

4. Nigeria’s National Football Team

The Nigerian national football team should be prayed for, as a painful defeat could occur.

 

5. A Great Man of God in Danger

One of the most celebrated men of God is at risk of sudden death. Prayers are needed to avert this tragedy.

 

6. Sunday Igboho

The activist should be prayed for to avoid heart-touching news that could cause widespread concern.

 

7. Nnamdi Kanu

Freedom is within reach for Nnamdi Kanu, but prayers are needed to ensure he lives to see it.

 

8. Fire Disasters Worldwide

Serious fire disasters are foreseen and must be prayed against to protect lives and properties globally.

 

9. NYSC and PHCN Reforms

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) will be empowered and reshuffled for greater effectiveness.

 

10. Global Police Forces

The police worldwide are warned of potential brutal revolts from the masses. Prayers are needed to prevent such events.

 

11. African Nations and Coups

Several African countries are advised to pray against unexpected coup plots.

 

12. Goodluck Jonathan’s Political Path

Former President Goodluck Jonathan is encouraged to follow God’s leading and refrain from contesting future elections.

 

13. Changes in EFCC

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) will be more empowered, but significant transformations will occur within the agency.

 

14. Passing of Aged Leaders

Several aged ex-presidents, traditional rulers, and military leaders will pass on in 2025.

 

15. New Religious Leaders

New leaders will emerge in white garment denominations and the Catholic Church, marking significant transitions.

 

16. Churches in Danger of Scandals

Great churches like RCCG, Winners Chapel, Christ Embassy, Mountain of Fire, and COZA are urged to pray against confusion and scandals that could lead to divisions.

 

17. Exposure of False Churches

Churches that operate under the guise of Christ without genuine faith will be exposed.

 

18. Protection of Yoruba Entertainers

Yoruba actors and actresses should pray against strange illnesses, while English-speaking entertainers must pray against sudden deaths.

 

19. Plane Crashes

A major plane crash could occur, causing widespread pain. Prayers are needed to prevent this disaster.

 

20. National Unity in Nigeria

Despite ongoing agitations, Nigeria will remain undivided.

 

21. The Monarch and Pope’s Seat

Prayers are required to prevent sudden vacancies in the monarchy of England and the papal seat.

 

22. Deadly Disease and Global Conflict

A new, more deadly ailment than COVID-19 and the potential of a mini-war loom on the horizon. The world must unite in prayer to avert these crises.

 

23. Rising of True Last-Day Churches

The emergence of last-day churches will bring forth spiritual giants and miraculous powers reminiscent of the apostles of old.

 

24. Business Tycoons in Nigeria

Successful Nigerian business magnates should seek divine protection against untimely death.

 

25. Christ’s Return is Near

Finally, Prophet Kingsley reminds the world that the return of Jesus Christ is near. Embracing holiness and righteousness is the only path to prepare for His coming.

 

Prophet Kingsley’s prophecies serve as a divine reminder for individuals, nations, and institutions to seek God’s guidance and protection. Let 2025 be a year of faith, reflection, and readiness for what lies ahead.

 

Let us watch, pray, and align with God’s will.

Continue Reading

Politics

Peter Obi Offers to Fulfill Bail Conditions for Dele Farotimi, Advocates Justice

Published

3 days ago

on

December 20, 2024

By

Peter Obi Offers to Fulfill Bail Conditions for Dele Farotimi, Advocates Justice

Peter Obi Offers to Fulfill Bail Conditions for Dele Farotimi, Advocates Justice

The global coordinator of the Obidient Movement has announced that Peter Obi, former presidential candidate and leader of the movement, has stepped forward to fulfill the bail conditions for human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi.

Farotimi, a prominent activist known for his bold stance against systemic issues in Nigeria, was recently granted ₦30 million bail by a Federal High Court following charges filed against him. The case has attracted significant public attention, with widespread support for Farotimi from various quarters.

In a statement, the Coordinator revealed that Obi expressed his gratitude to the judiciary and all stakeholders involved in the legal process. The former presidential candidate emphasized the importance of fairness, transparency, and the rule of law in resolving the matter.

The Obidient Movement, known for championing justice and accountability, has remained vocal in its support for Farotimi. The group reiterated its commitment to upholding the principles of justice and transparency in Nigeria’s judicial system.

The next hearing in Farotimi’s case is scheduled for January 2025, with supporters hopeful for a resolution that upholds the integrity of the legal process.

Continue Reading

Politics

Breaking: Speaker Obasa Debunks Allegation Of Spending N17b On Assembly Gate

Published

4 days ago

on

December 19, 2024

By

Breaking: Speaker Obasa Debunks Allegation Of Spending N17b On Assembly Gate

Breaking: Speaker Obasa Debunks Allegation Of Spending N17b On Assembly Gate

 

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, on Thursday described the allegation that the House spent N17 billion on the fixing of a gate as spurious and funny.

Breaking: Speaker Obasa Debunks Allegation Of Spending N17b On Assembly Gate

A self-proclaimed group, Lagos State Anti-Corruption Coalition, had accused the Assembly of spending the amount to construct a gate. The group also sought investigation of the claim.

Speaking at plenary, Dr. Obasa said the allegation stemmed from the fear of some people over 2027 which is still more than two years away.

Obasa further debunked the claim that the House spent N200 million on its recently organised 22nd thanksgiving service for staff.

“It is so funny. How much is the allocation of the Assembly in the whole year that we will decide to spend N17 billion on a gate? They even claimed that we expended 200 million on thanksgiving that did not hold.

“We are aware that at a period like this when we are approaching elections in 2027, we should expect such things. I think some people are scared and I don’t know why.

“This House did not and has not embarked on any such project. We are not that reckless. We had our thanksgiving last Friday and dignitaries from various parts of the State attended it,” the Speaker said.

Addressing further claims by the group about the alleged relationship between him and the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, the Speaker denied attending the latter’s screening and confirmation by the National Assembly.

“They said that I was at the National Assembly when they were confirming the EFCC chairman. I want to believe that there are CCTV cameras at the National Assembly to identify those who attended the event. The press must have written about it too. So the group should do more to confirm if I was there.

“This is just to deny the allegations in the interest of the public and not the writers because the writers are not those we should be joining words with,” the Speaker said.

Earlier, the House, through its spokesperson, Hon. Stephen Ogundipe, had addressed the allegations noting that the Assembly bases its activities on integrity, transparency and accountability.

“It is ludicrous the claim about constituency intervention funds and constituency project funds and their handling by Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and Clerk of the House, Barr. Olalekan Onafeko as claimed by the group.

“One would have expected a self-acclaimed anti-corruption crusading group to do its groundwork before jumping across the fence with conviction that it hit a jackpot to malign an institution of repute in the name of politics.

“Simply put, the Lagos State House of Assembly does not have any such funds. The Assembly does not embark on constituency projects. Instead, once every year, the House holds stakeholders’ meetings simultaneously across the state where constituents have the opportunity to tell the lawmakers their expectations and make requests for the betterment of the state.

“These requests and expectations are compiled and sent to the executive arm of government for consideration as inputs in subsequent budgets. If this is what the group takes as constituency intervention or project funds, we are sure this explanation has given the required education, moreover, it is common knowledge that it is the responsibility of the Executive arm to execute such projects,” the earlier statement by Ogundipe read.

Eromosele Ebhomele
Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Continue Reading

Cover Of The Week

RSS Africa-Newsroom

RSS APO Group – Africa-Newsroom: latest news releases related to Africa

Trending