Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has revealed that he would not have become a governor, but for the unbiased stance of the Nigerian Army.
He attributed the victories he recorded, both in the 2019 and 2023 governorship elections in the state to the professionalism of the Army.
This was as he also stated that the stable security being enjoy in the state is as a result of the cooperation of the Nigerian Army with the government and people of the state.
The governor made the revelations when he received the new Chief of Army Staff, Major-General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, who paid him a courtesy call in his office in Ibadan, on Tuesday.
He stated in a release by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, that the level of professionalism displayed by the officers on duty during the 2019 governorship election could not be over-emphasised.
He hailed the Army for its professionalism while on duties, especially during national assignments.
He added that, but for the Army’s unbiased stance, he would also not have won re-election in 2023.
Makinde said: “I am thankful to the Nigerian Army, especially the 2nd Division in Ibadan.
“I couldn’t have become the governor, if not for the professionalism of the Nigerian Army. I also wouldn’t have been re-elected if they had been partial.”
This was as assured that his government would continue to maintain a cordial relationship with the military outfit.
The governor congratulated the Chief of Army Staff on his elevation as well as the troops on the occasion of the 160th anniversary of the Army, slated for Ibadan.
Makinde noted that the state has continued to remain a stable state in terms of security due to the commitment and cooperation of the Army with the people of the state.
The governor promised to keep the relationship between the Army and the Oyo State government cordial.
He thanked the leadership of the outfit for celebrating its 160th anniversary in Oyo State, urging the Army not to limit the activities for the celebration to the barracks alone.
“We are glad that you brought the celebration to Ibadan. In South-West Nigeria, Oyo State actually is the biggest in terms of land mass.
“We will play our part and contribute to the activities of the Nigerian Army in the state and deepen the cooperation for mutually beneficial activities.
“The present situation and hike in fuel price are affecting our economy. If your teams are to be on full patrol, you know what the cost of petrol will be.
“But we encourage the leadership of the Nigerian Army and senior officers not to be discouraged but to be focused,” Makinde said.
Earlier, Major-General Lagbaja said the visit became imperative for the Nigerian Army to intimate the governor of its 160th anniversary holding in the state.
The 23rd Chief of Army Staff pledged to partner with the Oyo State government to further ensure peace and stability in the state and beyond.
He equally commended the governor for various interventions and support accorded the troops deployed across the length and breadth of the state.
Present at the event were the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi; the state Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni and the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Security Matters, CP Sunday Odukoya (rtd).
Others were Director-General, Operation Burst, Col. James Ajibola Oladipo (rtd); and state Commandant, Western Nigerian Security Network (Amotekun), Col. Olayinka Olayanju (rtd).
