The Bishop of the Diocese of Ibadan, Anglican Communion, Most Revd Joseph Akinfenwa, on Sunday, said that posterity would remember the Governor of Oyo State, Abiola Ajimobi, for reinventing the state during his two-term tenure of eight years.
He said the governor deserved commendation for not taking the state on what he called a merry-go-round of leadership cluelessness, brigandage and policy somersault, which, he said, had beset the state before he took over in 2011.
The cleric extolled Ajimobi in his homily during a special thanksgiving service for the successful completion of the governor’s two-term tenure, held at the Cathedral of St James, Oke-Bola, Ibadan, on Sunday.
Akinfenwa used the opportunity to advise the incoming administration to be focused by choosing and implementing a clear policy direction that would add value to the lives of the citizens of the state.
He said, “As a governor, posterity will remember you for achieving so much in eight years. You did not leave Oyo State the way you met it and I commend you for not taking Oyo State on a merry-go-round. You have broken many records and I can boldly say that you are a statesman.
“We knew what you inherited in 2011. Today we have peace and security in Ibadan and other parts of the state. No more violence, no more leadership mediocrity and policy somersault. On assumption of office, you chose your priorities and you follow them through.
“What is left is for your successor (Mr Seyi Makinde) to continue from where you stopped. I will advise him to draw a line and begin his administration. Whatever has been done in the past should be in the past. Draw a line and begin your own legacies.
“Irrespective of party affiliations you are all indigenes of Oyo State. The citizens will be the major beneficiaries of the wellbeing of the state. I’m appealing to the governor to please work for the success of your successor. Don’t be far from him. It’s a new challenge and they need to be guided. Whether they will accept or not, please do your own. Let’s join hands to work for the success of the incoming administration.”
He advised the governor to take a break from politics and go on vacation or go to a school in company with his wife for them to enjoy the warmth, which, he said state duties must have denied them in the past eight years.
