Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun on Sunday declared that he has been through turbulent times since he indicated interest in becoming the Governor of the state.
He said his victory in the March 9 governorship election had been contested in many courts, adding that the Saturday validation of it by the Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal, was a further proof that his mandate was divine.
Abiodun spoke with reporters in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, after emerging from the opening ceremony of the second plenary of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference at the Sacred Heart College, Okelewo, Abeokuta.
In attendance at the conference were Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi; Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs Pauline Tallen and Deputy of Osun State, Gboyega Alabi.
Others were Plauteau State Governor Simon Lalong, Prof. Pat Utomi and Pharm. Jimi Agbaje.
Speaking on victory at the tribunal, Abiodun said he has experienced one of the most turbulent periods any governor could have had.
He said he survived about nine pre – election cases, in addition to the challenge against his election at the tribunal.
He said, “My first reaction to give glory to Almighty God. And to say that this is a further affirmation that indeed with God nothing shall be impossible. This victory is for Ogun State people who have entrusted me with this mandate. It has been contested in so many courts.
“I have gone through probably one of the most turbulent periods any governor could have gone through. I went through several pre – election cases, about eight or nine and also this tribunal.
“God has continued to remain God, this mandate is a divine mandate and I believe that is obvious to all. This is a decision of the people of Ogun State and that was further ratified yesterday (Saturday).
“Unfortunately, I was away in Burkina Faso. But, I was being informed about what was going on back home and I was told it was a detailed judgment.”
Abiodun expressed gratitude to his party and the people of the state for their support.
“I am thankful to the judiciary, the Ogun people and my team of lawyers who are very learned and I am thankful to my party that has stood by me during this period. They are very discipline, very resilient, supportive and I could not have opted to be in another party apart from APC.
“It is not because I am the best in the state, but, I am special. God has just given me the assignment to lead Ogun State at this point in time. I have pledged I will do so with all God has given me,” Abiodun said.
