Dignitaries from far and wide, especially chieftains of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun, on Saturday, graced the grand luncheon as part of activities marking the Homecoming Reception for the immediate past Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola.
The event organised by the Friends of Rauf Aregbesola (FORA) was another opportunity for friends, family, supporters, well-wishers, and political associates to felicitate their leader and political mentor.
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The Chairman of the Planning Committee for the programme and former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Dr. Najeem Salaam, explained that the ex-minister is a man of many parts.
Dr. Salaam, who appreciated God on behalf of the immediate-past Minister, stressed that in the last 24 years of public service, Ogbeni Aregbesola had shown compassion, diligence, uncommon loyalty and determination to improve the lots of the populace.
The former speaker opined that the erudite politician of note remains a point of reference in Nigeria’s political landscape because of his undying passion for mass prosperity and the emancipation of the younger generation.
Those who spoke at the luncheon included his Senator Mudashiru Husain, former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Barrister Kolapo Alimi, Sheikh Yusuf Oko-Iya Eleko, and Mrs Yemi Akande recalled the numerous impact of the celebrant in their lives.
They described him as a leader with a large heart, accommodating spirit, resilient mind, and a dogged democrat whose passion for excellence and character in leadership can not be quantified. They wished him many more years in service to God and humanity.
“Oga is a rare gift to humanity. He combines service to God and people so well. As a Commissioner, Governor, and Minister, he was unrepentantly committed to the cause of the people and the leadership that works for the people.
“He is kind to everyone. He has the golden gift and foresight of excellence and service in governance and administering the affairs of men and women in politics. We are grateful to have worked with him and shared his common vision. He is forever our legend and icon of dynamism in public service. We are proud of your achievements, and we are indeed lucky to be associated with you.”
In his remarks, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola acknowledged the support of his followers, supporters, friends, well-wishers, and associates who made the homecoming event a success.
The former Minister expressed gratitude to the people of Osun, the State Government under the leadership of Governor Ademola Adeleke, traditional rulers, groups and associations, among others, for their unrelenting support for him and his ideology.
Aregbesola said in no distant time, leaders of the party would traverse the length and breadth of the state to visit party members and re-echo the need for them to strengthen the political base.
“I am deeply grateful to you, all. You have all shown me uncommon love, backing, strength, unity of purpose, and reassurance that you are indeed with us.
“We came into Osun, and the people received us. We particularly appreciate the Governor of Osun, Ademola Adeleke, for showing Maturity. We are APC, they are PDP, yet, they have received us well. We are very grateful.”
“We are grateful to the people of Osun. We will not let you down. We will soon begin a statewide tour to see all of our people and to assure them that we are fully back to see to their welfare. We are fully committed to strengthening the APC.”
