Former Ogun State Governor, Olusegun Osoba, has acknowledged his position as a political godfather but maintained that he does not interfere in Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration by recommending or imposing individuals for government appointments.
Osoba disclosed this 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 conversation was shared on Sunday.
Speaking on godfatherism and calls for influential political figures to withdraw from politics, the former governor said he rarely interfered in Abiodun’s administration, although he offered the governor advice when necessary.
“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 recommending an individual for an appointment could create resentment among others in his political circle who might equally 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 also be regarded 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 said.
The former governor advised political leaders to recognise and accommodate associates who supported their electoral campaigns but allow elected officials to make independent decisions on government appointments.
He also acknowledged his influence in Ogun politics, declaring that he would not deny being a godfather and identifying Senator Solomon Adeola as his preferred candidate.
“I agree, I’m a godfather. I won’t lie to you, Solomon Olamilekan Adeola is my candidate,” he said, citing Adeola’s political experience in the Lagos State House of Assembly, House of Representatives and Senate.
“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,” he said
Osoba maintained that although political elders could contribute to discussions surrounding the selection of candidates, they should not dictate how elected officials administer their governments.
The former governor led Ogun State from 1992 to 1993 and again between 1999 and 2003. Abiodun assumed office in 2019, succeeding Ibikunle Amosun.
