The Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has committed to facilitating a smooth, tranquil, and conflict-free transfer of power upon completing his second term in 2027, promising to establish a significant precedent for leadership change within the state.
Abiodun provided confirmation on Thursday at the Christmas church service held at St. James' Anglican Church in Iperu-Remo, within the Ikenne Local Government Area.
He stated that his government was committed to being the first in the state's history to transfer authority without bitterness or political conflict.
The political dynamics surrounding succession in Ogun State have long been marked by conflict, disagreements, and intense competition, which have periodically jeopardized the stability of the region.
Before the 2011 national election, current Governor Gbenga Daniel maintained that the Ogun West Senate Area must nominate his replacement and supported Gboyega Isiaka, an accredited accountant and top graduate from Obafemi Awolowo University.
Nevertheless, former President Olusegun Obasanjo and other officials within the previous governing People's Democratic Party opposed Isiaka's nomination and backed the late former military administrator of Oyo State, General Adetunji Olurin, who was also affiliated with Ogun West.
Isiaka ultimately ran under the banner of the People's Party of Nigeria, whereas Olurin stayed with the PDP, yet both were defeated in the election by Senator Ibikunle Amosun from the Action Congress of Nigeria.
In preparation for the 2019 gubernatorial election, former Governor Amosun from the All Progressives Congress stated that his replacement should be Adekunle Akinlade, who was at the time serving as the representative for Yewa South/Ipoka Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
However, the APC supported Dapo Abiodun, causing Amosun and his supporters to switch allegiance to the Allied Peoples Movement.
Abiodun secured victory in the election with a lead of approximately 19,000 votes, overcoming Akinlade from the APM party and Isiaka from the African Democratic Congress, who came in second and third place, respectively.
At the Christmas service held in his home town, Iperu-Remo, Abiodun stated that his government would steer clear of the tension and internal conflicts that have marked previous changes in leadership.
"As we near 2027, not only will we conclude effectively and with determination, by God’s favor, this government will transition smoothly to the next leader," he stated.
It marks the first time in the 50-year history of Ogun State where power changes hands peacefully. With God's help, I will attend my farewell event and also witness the inauguration of my replacement.
The leader credited his assurance to what he referred to as effective leadership, financial growth, and community-focused progress realized during his time in office.
He stated that Ogun State's yearly budget has risen from approximately N355 billion when he took office to more than N2.7 trillion, indicating higher economic growth and greater investor trust.
Our economy has increased nearly fivefold since our initial assessment. New manufacturing plants are emerging, more than 2,000 educational institutions have been rebuilt, employment opportunities have arisen, agricultural communities have gained strength, and prospects have broadened," he stated, emphasizing that his government remains committed to "concluding effectively.
Abiodun reiterated his dedication to utilizing his position for the benefit of the citizens via significant initiatives, highlighting the Gateway International Airport along with various infrastructure developments within the three senatorial regions as notable achievements.
He also praised President Bola Tinubu for what he called determined leadership within the framework of the Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that Nigeria was slowly becoming more stable, with better access to fuel, decreasing inflationary trends, and a more secure foreign currency system.
In discussing the importance of Christmas, Abiodun highlighted that the holiday represents love, peace, and kindness, encouraging locals to support those in need and lead lives inspired by Christian values.
In a sermon entitled "Christmas Is God's Greatest Present for You," Reverend Tolulope Akinwande, the pastor of the church, portrayed Christmas as the time when God offered himself to people via the coming of Jesus Christ.
Referencing verses from Hebrews 1:2–3 and John 1:2, 14, the religious leader stated that Jesus' coming completed God's purpose for humanity's redemption, encouraging followers to accept the teaching of love and change.
Akinwande praised Governor Abiodun for what he called focused leadership, hoping that the conclusion of his term would be even better than its start.
Offered by SyndiGate Media Inc. Syndigate.info ).
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