Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has disclosed that the Otun Olubadan, Oba (Senator) Rashidi Ladoja, played an important role in his political history.
Though he did not mention the role, the governor also maintained that, contrary to speculations that he had issues with Ladoja, he never had differences with the political leader.
This was as he absolved himself of allegations of land-grabbing, noting that all what his administration was doing were in the best interest of the state and its people.
Makinde stated these on Wednesday when he paid a visit to the Ondo Street, Bodija, Ibadan home of the former governor on the occasion of his 80th birthday anniversary.
The governor said the people of Oyo State will continue to look up to the wisdom, experience and leadership of the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Ladoja.
Governor Makinde further stated that, though the octogenarian politician and astute businessman has done a lot for the state, he still has a lot of roles to play in the development of the state.
Makinde felicitated Oba Ladoja on behalf of the people of Ibadanland and the state. He maintained that contrary to speculations that he had issues with Ladoja, he never had differences with the political leader.
The governor also seized the opportunity of the visit to Oba Ladoja to clear the air on the accusation against him that has converted almost all available spaces in the state into housing estates.
Makinde acknowledged that he noticed how some individuals have been accusing him of converting everywhere to a housing estate. He, however, said some developments have to take place, even if they appear to be unpalatable at the moment.
The governor insisted that the decisions being taken are in the best interest of the state. He, however, said wherever there are challenges, his government remained open to addressing them and finding a lasting solution.
“Some critics have falsely accused us of land-grabbing. I even read somewhere on the social media that the way Seyi Makinde is going, he might even convert the Lekan Salami Stadium and even the state Secretariat into housing estates.
“Well, there has to be development. But if there must be development, it will follow a certain trajectory. Where there are challenges, I will say it again and again, we will address them.
“It is God that puts one in a position and it is not by one’s power or knowledge. So, this is just an opportunity for me to tell you to engage with us.
“Wherever there are challenges, we can solve the problem together,” Governor Makinde stated in a press release by his Special Adviser (Media), Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju.
