Former Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, has described his predecessor Governor in Osun State, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, as a man of a firm character and abiding principles.
These were two of some 10 virtues he attributed to Oyinlola as he saluted the soldier-turned politician on his 75th birthday.
The glowing tribute, which Aregbesola posted on his Facebook page on Sunday, has gingered tongues to wag as many were surprised based on the fierce rivalry that used to reign between the two politicians.
In various comments, some recalled the violence that occurred as both fought for power, while others noted that the new-found love buttresses the fact that interest, not friendship or enmity, rules politics.
In the post that dripped with sweet adjectives, Aregbesola noted other Oyinlola’s virtues to include Ọmọlúàbí ethos, military discipline, unwavering Christian faith, undisguised stance and absolute loyalty.
He wrote:
Today, I attended a thanksgiving service organised to celebrate the 75th birthday of Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, former Governor of Osun State, at the Oba Moses Oyinlola Memorial Anglican Church, Okuku, Osun State.
I recall with deep gratitude his steadfast support during my re-election bid in 2014. His encouragement and solidarity at that critical moment remain unforgettable.
Prince Oyinlola is a man of firm character and abiding principles, shaped by the Yoruba Ọmọlúàbí ethos, strengthened by military discipline, and anchored in a deep and unwavering Christian faith.
With him, you always know where you stand—and when he stands with you, his loyalty is absolute and unwavering. He possesses a strong personality and a commanding presence that naturally commands attention. He does not inspire indifference; people feel strongly about him, whether in admiration or disagreement. This, in itself, is the hallmark of a true leader who leaves a lasting imprint wherever he goes.
As he marks this platinum jubilee, I extend my warmest felicitations to him and his dear family. I pray that Almighty God grants him many more years of excellent health, renewed strength, and boundless energy as he continues to serve God, humanity, and our beloved nation.
