Your Excellency, Madam Deputy Governor of Ogun State:
I have read your letter to the Leader of the Senate, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, CON, in response to his public lecture delivered at the invitation of the Ogun West Professionals and I feel compelled, as a stakeholder in Ogun West and a loyal party member, to place certain issues in proper perspective, particularly as they concern the Leader of the Senate
First, it is important to state unequivocally that the Leader of the Senate neither sought to interfere in the internal political affairs of Ogun State nor to undermine its leadership structure. Such an interpretation overreaches the intent and substance of his intervention. The Leader’s engagement was rooted in dialogue, reflection, and a long-standing commitment to party cohesion, equity, and stability; values our party has consistently upheld.
It is also pertinent to note that the Governor of Ogun State and the Leader of the Senate share a long-standing, cordial, and mutually respectful relationship. They are, in every sense, close political allies and trusted friends. I have no doubt whatsoever that the Leader of the Senate holds His Excellency, Prince Dr. Dapo Abiodun, MFR, CON, in the highest esteem. Care must therefore be taken by all stakeholders to protect the sanity, mutual trust and strategic importance of that relationship in the overall interest of the party.
Respect for the leadership of His Excellency, Prince Dr. Dapo Abiodun, as Governor and party leader in Ogun State is absolute, and any attempt to drag His Excellency into uncharted waters of controversy would be both misplaced and avoidable. His leadership role and standing within the party are well established and deserve to be insulated from unnecessary political controversy.
Furthermore, uncomplimentary jabs at the personality of the Leader of the Senate, particularly those premised on incontrovertible historical trajectory such as his elementary or secondary education in Ogun State are condemnable and unnecessary. Such lines of argument neither advance constructive engagement nor reflect the inclusive ethos of our party, which has always valued contribution, goodwill, and national cohesion above parochial considerations.
The Leader of the Senate occupies a constitutionally recognised national office and is, by virtue of that position, a senior stakeholder in the fortunes of the party across the federation. Contributions made in that capacity especially on issues of inclusion, balance, and unity cannot reasonably be construed as external interference. Rather, they form part of the consultative culture of a national political party.
The clamour for fairness and inclusion in Ogun West is real, long-standing, and widely acknowledged. Recognising this reality does not amount to prescribing outcomes, nor does it undermine party discipline. It reflects political maturity and responsiveness to genuine stakeholder concerns.
At this delicate moment, restraint, mutual respect, and openness to dialogue are required from all sides. The unity of our party and the preservation of key relationships among its leaders must remain paramount.
Please accept, Your Excellency, the assurances of my highest regards.
Yours sincerely,
Hon. Kayode Oladele
