Former governor of Ogun State, Ibikunle Amosun and the incumbent governor of the state, Dapo Abiodun seems to have put their differences aside and embraced peace. The duo had not been on speaking terms with each other for about five years and their rivalry had assumed a different dimension ahead of the 2023 governorship election in Ogun State. A few weeks ago, Amosun had stated he would oppose Abiodun’s second term ambition the same way he did in 2019.
Both Abiodun and Amosun had been at daggers drawn prior to the 2019 general election over the governorship ticket of the state, which went to Abiodun eventually. Amosun had thrown his support behind his anointed candidate, Adekunle Akinlade, who ran on the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement.
The two engaged in an unending altercation a few months ago over what many people don’t understand. Amosun had alleged that the 2019 election was rigged in favour of Abiodun and vowed to ensure his removal in 2023. Abiodun, who couldn’t take the insult, described his predecessor as suffering from self-delusion and political amnesia.
Not long after their altercation, Amosun openly declared his support for Biyi Otegbeye, the governorship candidate of African Democratic Congress in Ogun State while dumping Abiodun again who is seeking a second term bid. However, things seemed to have changed when both politicians met recently at the coronation ceremony of the 14th Olowu of Owu Abeokuta, Oba Saka Adelola Matemilola.
They greeted each other warmly, even as Abiodun recognised and acknowledged Amosun as his predecessor amidst cheers from the crowd, while delivering his speech at the occasion. Those in attendance applauded the two politicians for displaying maturity, hoping and praying that they wouldn’t resume their rivalry again.
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