Former Ogun State Governor, Olusegun Osoba, has acknowledged his influence in the state's politics, admitting that he is a political godfather but insisting that he does not interfere in Governor Dapo Abiodun's administration by imposing individuals for government appointments.
Osoba made this known during an interview on The Reuben and Kike Abati Podcast, hosted by media personalities Dr Reuben Abati and Kikelomo Atanda-Owo. A video of the interview was shared on Sunday.
Speaking on godfatherism and calls for influential political figures to withdraw from politics, Osoba said he rarely interfered in Abiodun's administration, although he regularly offered him advice.
“And I can tell you one thing that is working for me in Ogun State is because I hardly interfere. Governor Dapo Abiodun, I counsel and advise him; I’ve never nominated one person into his government,” he said.
Osoba explained that appointing one person from among his numerous political associates could create resentment among others who might also expect to be considered.
"I have so many people around me. If I pick one, I will offend the other. If there are 100, I pick one, 99 offended,” he said.
He added that anyone he recommended for an appointment could be viewed with suspicion by other members of the administration.
“Anybody I put in there will be a suspect. I will advise him, this, this, my advice to him; they don’t have to take it,” Osoba stated.
The former governor advised political office holders to recognise and compensate those who supported their campaigns while allowing them to make independent decisions on government appointments.
However, Osoba openly acknowledged his godfather status and declared Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, as his preferred candidate.
“I agree, I’m a godfather. I won’t lie to you, Solomon Olamilekan Adeola is my candidate,” he said.
He justified his preference by highlighting Adeola's political experience, including his service in the Lagos State House of Assembly, the House of Representatives and the Senate, as well as his professional background as an accountant and experience in appropriation.
“He’s been in the House of Assembly in Lagos. He’s been in the House of Reps. He’s been in the Senate. He’s an accountant. He’s been in appropriation. I give advice, but I will not insist,” Osoba added.
Osoba maintained that political elders could contribute to the process of selecting candidates but should not dictate how elected governors administer their governments.
Osoba governed Ogun State from 1992 to 1993 and again from 1999 to 2003. Abiodun assumed office in 2019, succeeding former Governor Ibikunle Amosun.
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