FORMER governor of Osun, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, on Wednesday declared that among all the contenders for the governorship seat in the state, the gubernatorial candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Alhaji Fatai Akinbade remains the most qualified to steer the ship of governance in the state.
Oyinlola made this declaration during the official presentation of the party’s flag to Akinbade and his running mate, Justice Olamide Folahanmi Oloyede in Osogbo by the national chairman of the ADC, Chief Ralph Nwosu.
He recalled that “when those who are concerned about the present condition of Osun State came to meet me on how we can best rescue the state from APC government. But before I answered them I made my consultation and I realise that Fatai Akinbade is the best option for the state in 2018”.
According to Oyinlola, “the former party of Fatai Akinbade told me that he is the best option for 2018 election but he doesn’t have money to spend on the election which is why they can’t present him as their governorship aspirant. This reason made him leave the party and I took advantage to make use of him because is the best candidate for me. He has run the government with me for seven and half years and he has done so well during his service”.
While contending that with the massive support of the people, Akinbade would win the governorship poll, the former governor maintained that “this state must be rescued from the decadence caused by the APC government. The debt profile of Osun State is high and we need a technocrat to save the state. Fatai Akinbade has worked with me when I cleared the debt of Osun State when I was the governor and I believe he knows how to do same again if he emerges as the governor”.
In his remark, Akinbade posited that “on our parts, my partnership with my deputy, Justice Olamide Folahanmi Oloyede (rtd), a courageous woman of valour shall be to the upliftment of the state and its people. We shall take Osun to lofty heights.
He further affirmed that “our party, ADC is determined to provide an alternative to the people of the state. As true democrats, we are committed to providing a strong and formidable platform for true development and progress of our state for the benefit of all”.
While commending former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Oyinlola for believing in his candidature and his running mate, Akinbade posited that “in the like manner, I want to equally use this opportunity to thank my brother and former SSG, Prince Kazeem Adio for being selfless as a true party man, which has made today’s occasion a hitch free. The import of this shall not be lost on us, as we shall be diligent towards improving a lot of our people”.
and then