Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji
ABEOKUTA – An Ogun State First Class Monarch, the Olubara of Ibara, Oba Jacob Olufemi Omolade, on Thursday declared open support for Gboyega Isiaka, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Candidate for the forthcoming governorship election in Ogun State, saying he is most qualified to govern the State in the next political dispensation.
The monarch while receiving the governorship candidate’s entourage in his Palace at Ibara, Abeokuta, stressed that Isiaka is not only the most qualified candidate among other candidates gunning for the position, but that he has the native intelligence to lead the state on a path of abundance.
Olubara, a close friend of former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo who recalled that he did not support the ADC standard-bearer in 2011 and 2015, explained that his support for him this time, was in the spirit of fairness and equity for the Ogun West people.
Oba Omolade who rued the decision of the incumbent to not consult the elders of Yewaland before choosing a successor, maintained that Isiaka was well positioned to win the impending election.
“I am with GNI now. Although I didn’t support him in previous elections. I checked his background and record and that of other candidates, and I can say he is the one my heart chooses. If we closely check other candidates in this race, you will find out they are not on a par with him.
“When other Candidates came calling, I said in my mind, I will do the right thing. And it is only right that we support a candidate from a region that has never had the opportunity to govern our State. Although he looks gentle, but he is a man of no mean repute. I am particularly happy with the political Party he has chosen”.
Oba Omolade stated further, “Where he is, he is standing on the rock. If GNI emerges Governor, we would not be disappointed. He is educated, learned and has a good understanding of financial management. He has been on this journey for long. He is courageous and resilient. As far as I am supporting him and God is also behind him and with the backing of my friend (OBJ), victory is certain.” .
Earlier, Isiaka pledged to take the State to greater heights, saying this would be achieved by tapping the array of opportunities in the gateway State.
He identified traditional institutions as a vital component of his administration’s plans to promote good governance, morals and values reorientation.
According to the governorship hopeful, “We are of the firm belief that our people can indeed live a life of abundance because we have so much opportunities available to us. We have a lot of advantages as a State, and our top objective will be deriving maximum benefit from our many edges as a State.
I have a sincerity of purpose to serve our people and I can say with all honesty that I will not disappoint Ogun State people if I am entrusted with the governorship position.”
Foremost Educationist and the Asiwaju of Yewa land, Prof. Anthony Asiwaju who was also present at the occasion, described the ADC governorship candidate as a “Son one can be proud of anywhere” assuring that he would not renege on his campaign promises.