Former Ogun State governor, Olusegun Osoba, has acknowledged his role as a political godfather in the state but insisted that he does not interfere in the administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun by dictating appointments or imposing loyalists on the government.
Speaking during an interview on The Reuben and Kike Abati Podcast, Osoba said his relationship with the governor is largely advisory, stressing that he offers counsel when necessary but leaves governance decisions to the elected administration.
According to the elder statesman, he has deliberately avoided nominating individuals for government positions despite having many political associates who might expect such favours.
Osoba explained that recommending one person for appointment could create resentment among numerous others within his political circle. He added that any appointee perceived as his nominee could become a subject of suspicion within the government.
The former governor said his role is limited to providing guidance and advice, noting that governors are not obligated to follow every recommendation offered by political leaders or mentors.
He stated that while political leaders should encourage governors to accommodate supporters who contributed to electoral victories, the final authority on appointments and administration should rest with the governor.
Osoba also openly admitted to being a political godfather and identified Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola as his preferred candidate in Ogun politics. He praised Adeola’s extensive experience, citing his service in the Lagos State House of Assembly, the House of Representatives and the Senate, as well as his background in public finance and appropriation matters.
Despite expressing support for Adeola, Osoba maintained that political elders should offer advice rather than insist on outcomes, emphasising that elected officials must retain the independence to govern without undue influence.
The former governor argued that there is a distinction between supporting political candidates and controlling government after elections, stressing that godfatherism should not translate into interference in public administration.
Osoba served as governor of Ogun State from 1992 to 1993 and again from 1999 to 2003. Governor Abiodun assumed office in 2019 following the tenure of former governor Ibikunle Amosun.
The remarks come amid continuing public debate over the influence of political godfathers and the role they play in candidate selection and governance across Nigeria.
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