Sen. Iyabode Anisulowo, who spoke
on behalf of ADC Apex stakeholders at a news conference in Abeokuta on Thursday, expressed displeasure over recent happenings in the state ahead of the 2023 general elections.
Anisulowo accused the governor of alleged intimidation that led to the sudden cancellation of the planned visit of Barr. Biyi Otegbeye, the Gubernatorial candidate of ADC to the Council of Awori Oba’s which was scheduled for today, Thursday.
She noted that it was sad that the revered traditional institution, custodian of culture and values was being trampled upon by the state governor.
” Today, November 3 had been fixed by the Council of Awori Obas to meet with Barr. Biyi Otegbeye and up till last evening, the event was billed to hold as many of the Obas were excited and ready to meet us today at the Olota of Ota Palace.
‘ It was therefore shocking when Otegbeye received communications, very late last night, from the Palace that the event is cancelled; for no justifiable reasons.
“The Freedom of Association and Assembly is one which is guaranteed by the Constitution of Nigeria.
“The Chatter of United Nations also recognizes this right hence any attempt by any institution or Government to deny this inalienable right must be resisted let alone by an individual who was democratically elected by the people.
“We smelled a rat and from our findings and reliable information that is not controvertible, it was discovered that the State Government had contacted the Awori Obas not to receive Otegbeye and his entourage today.
” Why will Obas who were all set for us suddenly become unavailable!
” It is ironic that Dapo Abiodun who visited Awori Obas without let or hindrance when he was campaigning to become Governor, has now turned our revered Obas to Push-arounds.
” This harassment by Abiodun and his failed party (APC) is a sacrilege and a total desecration of the traditional institution.
It’s even worse that he decided to wield such draconian powers on Ogun West by preventing Yewa-Awori Monarchs from receiving their own Son on their land.
” As we speak, the same man is currently meeting with Obas in Ijebu Ode just as he has been doing throughout the state. This is pathologically hypocritical and a double standard,” she said.
Anisulowo stated that ADC would not tolerate this descent into autocratic rule and anarchy in the state.
” Our State is not a banana Republic. This is the State of Obafemi Awolowo, Olusegun Obasanjo, Jonathan Odebiyi, MKO Abiola, Olabisi Onabanjo, Prof Wole Soyinka and many other patriots who laboured for democracy, rule of law and a free society which enabled individuals like Dapo Abiodun enjoy the privileges of public office.
Anisulowo opined that it was important to forestall the culture of impunity, intimidation and intolerance being promoted by the governor.
She appreciated the support of the people and their unalloyed determination to vote out this non-performing administration.
” The African Democratic Congress is determined more than ever to deliver the state and turn things around. This action has further strengthened our resolve to bring good governance to people with creation of wealth and make life more abundant for all.
Other members of the party in attendance at the news conference included Hon. Muyiwa Oladipo, Former speaker, Ogun House of Assembly, Hon Tunde Sanusi and Mr Bolaji Adeniji among others.
In a swift response, Alhaji Waheed Odusile , the State Commissioner for Information and Strategy said; ” the allegation can not be true, we don’t tell Obas what to do.
