Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has praised former Governor Rauf Aregbesola for his significant contributions to public service.
The commendation came during an event celebrating Aregbesola’s 67th birthday in Osogbo, the state capital.
Adeleke, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Teslim Igbalaye, highlighted how his administration is continuing the legacy of infrastructure development initiated by Aregbesola.
Adeleke remarked, “You are blessed. You only know a core politician with the calibre of people following him when he is not in power. For me to see the calibre of people that are here even without being in power at the moment, it means God is with you. It also shows that you are on the ground.”
The governor emphasized that the state executive council and the PDP are honoring Aregbesola, acknowledging his lasting impact on the community and praying for his continued good health and service to Osun State.
“On behalf of the Osun State Executive Council, we are celebrating you, our party the PDP is celebrating you. Continue to do good to people. You are reaping the fruits of your legacy and impact in the lives of the people and I pray God to grant you many more years in good and sound health in service to Osun State,” Adeleke stated.
The event, organized by the Omolaubi Progressives group where Aregbesola serves as grand patron, featured remarks from Aregbesola himself. Reflecting on the state of national development, he asserted that leaders must prioritize the public’s interest to overcome underdevelopment challenges. He emphasized that good governance is rooted in the fear of God, dedication to humanitarian principles, and projects that ensure societal prosperity.
Aregbesola articulated, “We thank those who we started together, those who have joined us and those who will join us. We are inviting everybody to join the Omoluabi movement. We make no discrimination on the basis of ethnicity, religion, occupation, economic status and any circumstance of birth, except in adherence to our core values and character. We are open to all people, young and old, rich and poor, educated or otherwise, traders and blue collar, landowners and tenants.”
He further stressed that political power should be used to serve the people, advocating for leadership characterized by discipline, courage, character, and competence.
“We cannot serve or lead the people to victory without ensuring that those governing rule with the fear of God, utmost dedication to the principles that put humanity first as well as embarking on projects that see to the continued prosperity of the mass in the society. That is simply the best way to lead,” he added.
Aregbesola, who governed Osun State from November 27, 2010, to November 27, 2018, and later served as Minister of Interior during President Muhammadu Buhari’s second term, has maintained a positive relationship with Adeleke since the latter assumed office in 2022. This cordiality underscores a cooperative political environment aimed at furthering the state’s development and governance.