Former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Isola, has called on politicians in Ogun State to prioritize unity and eschew divisive politics, warning that a hostile political atmosphere hinders meaningful development.
Isola made the remarks on Wednesday during a gathering hosted by Ogun Women-in-Politics to mark his 64th birthday.
The event, held at the Ibara GRA residence of former Ogun State Governor and National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Segun Osoba, was attended by political stakeholders and grassroots leaders.
The former Minister of Mines and Steel Development emphasized the need for Ogun politicians to emulate Lagos’ model of harmonious succession, which, according to him, has significantly contributed to the state’s development.
“We cannot continue with this pattern of hostile transitions and expect Ogun State to develop like Lagos,” Isola said.
“From Governor Segun Osoba to Governor Gbenga Daniel, then to Governor Ibikunle Amosun, and now Governor Dapo Abiodun, the transitions have been marked by hostility. This has impeded the state’s progress.”
To foster unity, Isola disclosed that he had held consultations with key stakeholders, including former Governors Gbenga Daniel and Ibikunle Amosun, as well as Governor Dapo Abiodun.
Traditional rulers such as the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo; the Olu of Ilaro, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle; and the Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, were also part of his reconciliation efforts.
Addressing speculations about the 2027 governorship race, Isola revealed that the Egba people, for the first time, are unified in their demand for the governorship to be zoned to Ogun Central Senatorial District.
“This is the first time the Egba people have unanimously agreed that Ogun Central should produce the next governor,” he said, noting that since 2019, Egba people have not held key positions such as deputy governor, Secretary to the State Government, or Head of Service.
He, however, dismissed claims that Egba politicians have consistently opposed Ogun West’s aspirations for the governorship.
He highlighted instances where prominent Egba leaders, including himself, supported Ogun West candidates.
“The Egba people have always been political allies of Ogun West,” he explained.
He added “in 2011, former President Olusegun Obasanjo supported the late Tunji Olurin, with me as the Director General of his campaign.
“Similarly, in 2019, Senator Ibikunle Amosun backed Adekunle Akinlade, and I served as DG Campaigns. Even in 2023, Senator Amosun supported Biyi Otegbeye, another Yewa candidate.”
Isola urged Ogun politicians to embrace a culture of politics without acrimony, emphasizing that such an approach is crucial for the state’s development.
He also commended Ogun Women-in-Politics for their dedication to promoting unity and encouraged them to continue advocating for harmonious political practices.
“Divisive politics brings nothing but retrogression. We must work together to ensure peace, love, and harmony for the betterment of Ogun State,” Isola concluded.
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