Former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba has said that although he considers himself a political godfather in the state, he does not interfere in Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration by recommending individuals for government appointments.
Osoba stated this during an interview on The Reuben and Kike Abati Podcast, hosted by media personalities Reuben Abati and Kikelomo Atanda-Owo.
A video of the interview was shared on Sunday.
Speaking about political godfatherism and the influence of political leaders on elected officials, the former governor said he preferred to offer advice to Abiodun rather than dictate how his government should operate.
“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.
He explained that making recommendations for appointments could create resentment among other political associates who might also expect to benefit from such influence.
“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.
Osoba added that appointing someone through his recommendation could also raise suspicions about the person’s loyalty and relationship with 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 the contributions of those who supported them during election campaigns by involving them in governance, while allowing elected governors to make their own decisions on appointments.
However, he acknowledged his political influence in Ogun State and openly declared his support for Senator Solomon 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.
Explaining his support for the senator, Osoba highlighted Adeola’s political experience, including his time in the Lagos State House of Assembly, the House of Representatives and the Senate, as well as his professional background as an accountant.
“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 political elders could contribute to the process of choosing candidates but should not impose their preferences on elected officials or dictate the running of their administrations.
Osoba governed Ogun State between 1992 and 1993 and again from 1999 to 2003.
Abiodun assumed office in 2019, succeeding Ibikunle Amosun.
