Osun: Arewa group dissociates self from TOP
Abimbola Abatta Osogbo
Members of the Hausa Community in Osun State have distanced themselves from a group called “The Osun Progressives” (TOP) which has the former Governor of Osun State and the current Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Aregbesola as its progenitor.
They also threatened legal action against any member of their community who may be using the names of the community leaders known as Serikis to align the apolitical Hausa Community to the political group.
The State Chairman, Council of Serikis, Alh. Lawal Gomina who spoke on behalf of the Community, noted that their allegiance to Oyetola-led government has never trembled but rather remains staunch and unflinching because of the wonderful performance of the governor at the helms of affairs.
This was revealed during the meeting of all Serikis in the State with the Special Adviser to the Governor on Civic Engagement, Hon. Olatunbosun Oyintiloye held at the Centre for Civic Engagement, Osogbo.
It would will be recalled that one of the members of the Hausa Community recently declared that the Community had severed their relationship with the present administration and aligned with a group formed by the former Governor; a position which he described as that of the entire leadership of Hausa Community in the state.
While reacting, the Grand Seriki flanked by all the Serikis in the state, emphasised that the entire Hausa Community remained supportive to the administration of Oyetola, reiterating that any other position contrary to that does not in any way, represent the popular opinion of the community.
“As a community, we have no reason to severe our relationship with the people’s Governor for he has done wonders in the state governace. His leadership style is second to none and has brought about tremendous developments in all critical sectors of the state.
“Although as insatiable beings, we may have our yearnings but that do not stop us from appreciating his wondrous performance in the state which is endearing us more to his administration. As a listening leader which the governor is, we believe all our aspirations would be adequately met,” he added.
Also speaking, the Seriki of Hausa Community in Modakeke township, Alh. Sulaiman Umar described the act of impersonating the Serikis especially for political selfish reasons as abhorring and disrespectful, noting that the community would not hesitate to punish those involved, so as to serve as a deterrent for others who may wish to take similar step in the future.
In his remarks, the Special Adviser appreciated the Community for their immense support to the administration of Oyetola, saying the governor would not relent in making impactful policies that would positively affect their lives.
He entreated them to continue lending their support to the Government for the perpetuation of socioeconomic development which the state currently enjoys.
