Inconsistency, Cross-Carpeting, Bane Of Nigeria’s Retarded Development – Ex-Oyo Dep Gov

By Ayobami Agboola, Osogbo

Lack of consistency and party loyalty exhibited by some political gladiators has been identified as clog in the wheel of Nigeria’s socio-political and economic development.

Former Deputy Governor of Oyo state, Chief Iyiola Oladokun, stated this while delivering a lecture at the ninety-fourth birthday celebration of Chief Ayorinde Fasanmi, leader of Afenifere, on Thursday, in Osogbo.

Oladokun, who frowned at the inconsistent nature of some politicians in Nigeria, said lack of consistency and loyalty was the bane of party politics in Nigeria.

Speaking on the topic: “Ayo Fasanmi: An Epitome of Consistency And Loyalty To Progressive Ideals”, the former deputy governor said there were many political gladiators who were known for jumping from one political party to another for selfish reasons.

He commended Pa Fasanmi for being a consistent and loyal party man, who stands firmly by the principles of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

He said: “Papa Fasanmi came into politics with a progressive mindset and has remained so till now. He has never been a chameleon party man, which is the bane of party politics in Nigeria today.

“Whereas there are uncountable number of men of his age bracket who are known for jumping from one political party to another for selfish reasons bordering on stomach infrastructure. Chief Ayo Fasanmi is consistent with the firm determination to do what is right at all times, no matter the odds.

“Contrary to what is in vogue in the Nigerian political arena, Chief Ayo Fasanmi contested elections and remained loyal to his political party in his loss and humble in his victory. He contested governorship primary elections against Chief Adekunle Ajasin in 1979 in Ondo state. Chief Ajasin had 32 votes and Chief Ayo Fasanmi had 19. To the surprise of his supporters and other contestants’ supporters, Chief Fasanmi went and congratulated Chief Ajasin.

The Guest Lecturer then prayed God to give Papa Fasanmi the grace to celebrate many more of years on earth, in sound health and enormous wealth.

Earlier, Osun state Governor, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola had described Chief Ayo Fasanmi as a beacon of hope and Pillar of light for the younger generation of politicians and administrators.

Oyetola, who was represented by his deputy, said the unrelenting effort and contributions of Chief Fasanmi to progressive politics has helped to deepen democracy in Nigeria.

He further explained that Chief Fasanmi’s democratic spirit pushed him to fight against military rule and bad governance with uncommon perseverance.

Also speaking, former governor of Osun state, Chief Bisi Akande, urged Nigerian youths to always have another profession rather than depend solely on politics for their income.

Akande said the only way for Nigerian politicians to be consistent and loyal to their party was for them to remain engaged in their professions instead of depending on politics.

He attributed Chief Fasanmi’s political consistency to the love he has for his country and the fact that he had a profession which he remained true to. He never depended solely on politics.