2019 Campaign Violence: I have forgiven Amosun, loyalists- Governor Abiodun
By ABIODUN JIMOH, ABEOKUTA
Governor Dapo Abiodun in his magnanimity reiterated that he has forgiven those behind the February 11th, 2019 electioneering campaign violence at the MKO Abiola stadium, Abeokuta when he was receiving the All Progressives Congress (APC) flag as the party candidate for the governorship election.
Governor Abiodun who went down memory lane of how he escaped unscathed exactly a year ago when loyalists of his predecessor pelted leaders of the APC in Abeokuta descended as the party’s flag was being handed over to him by chieftains of the party including President Muhammadu Buhari, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, National Leader Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and among other big wigs.
He stated this during State Executive meeting held at Oke Mosan, Abeokuta on Tuesday whereby the Exco finally approved the Ogun State Security Network Agency Bill after about ten hours deliberation behind closed door.
Governor Abiodun said: “I have forgiven those who caused violence on these leaders and party supporters nor do I hold any grudge against anyone that played a part in the incidence of February 11, 2019, where the highest level of political intolerance in the country was witnessed.
“The level of intolerance during the campaign was only part of what God had ordained so as to ensure my emergence as governor.
“I have said often times that I do not bear grudge against anybody. You are all part of the scriptures that needed to be fulfilled. So, for all those who fought us, stoned us, intimidated us, harassed us, beat us, they all had their part to play so that the scripture can be fulfilled. Accordingly, we have forgiven them, more importantly, God has crowned us with victory.
Abiodun who opined that it was hard for him to believe that Ogun State, a state of many first experienced such a ugly incident, added that the level of humility of his team in the midst of the ugly smear campaign played a huge role in their victory at the polls.
He added that his administration will continue to be humble in its quest to make the state better than it met it, saying that they will continue to ensure they provide good governance to the people of the state.
“I could not believe that in this state, in which I am a bonafide son of the soil, in this state, which is a state of many first, that such a show of shame was taking place before my very eyes, in front of the number one and number two persons in this country, I could not just believe it.”
He concluded: “If with that sense of humility, God has heard our prayers and granted us victory, why do we want to change that style? I think one of the ways that we can appreciate God for this grace that he has given unto us is by performing.
“The people of the state has entrusted us with this mandate that date, February 11, 2019, for me marked the turning point in the process of us getting to this seat. It was a defining moment.”
