The several war of succession in the politics of Ogun state was described as unfortunate and preventable, which had brought set back to the state in the past.
This was the submission of former Nigeria High Commissioner to United Kingdom, Ambassador Sarafa Isola during his welcome back party in Abeokuta yesterday.
Ambassador Isola, a native of the Egba division of Ogun State, highlighted the detrimental impact of hostile succession in the state’s political landscape, adding that sustainable development could only be achieved if the political class embraced continuity and collaboration, urging them to overcome the current political divisions
The Egba Chief emphasized the need for political leaders and traditional rulers to unite in putting an end to the ongoing hostility over succession plans which had plaque the state in time past.
The war of succession in Ogun state began in 2011 while Otunba Gbenga Daniel who was elected in 2003, after serving two-term of eight years got enmeshed in his choice of successor.
Otunba Daniel inability to resolve the crisis, contributed to the victory of Senator Ibikunle Amosun at the poll.
The same crisis erupted after eight years administration of Senator Amosun, which contributed to the victory of the present administration of Prince Dapo Abiodun.
Speaking at the event, Ambassador Isola narrated that “what we have seen here today transcends beyond Egbaland because what has happened today was a kind of conglomerate, consisting of good people across Ogun state and beyond who believe in this course and have identified with this course.
“In Ogun state today we are too politically divided and it is very clear that no state can develop within two terms which is the maximum term of any state government.
“What develop a society is sustainable development.
“I want to enjoin all of us, particularly our traditional rulers, because they are the only permanent actors , to work towards ensuring that hostile succession is a thing of the past in Ogun state.
“And I’m challenging everybody in the political class to also take up the challenge, the potentials of this state is quite enormous, I look forward to a state where all of us we see ourselves as partners in progress”.
The former immediate High Commissioner stressed the immense potential of Ogun State and envisioned a future where all stakeholders viewed themselves as partners in progress.
He acknowledged the diasporic community for their exceptional cooperation and the dedicated staff at the High Commission in London, emphasizing the importance of effective leadership in achieving collective success.
In an emotional remark, Ambassador Isola thanked his wife for her unwavering support during his demanding schedule as High Commissioner. He also celebrated the unity among traditional rulers, sharing anecdotes of joint celebrations and camaraderie that transcended geographical boundaries.