Renowned journalist and publisher, Chief Dr Dele Momodu, has reaffirmed his strong attachment to Osun State, describing himself as a major stakeholder in the state regardless of who occupies the governorship.
Momodu, in a personal reflection, said his connection with Osun State dated back to his birth and upbringing in Ile-Ife, where he spent his formative years and obtained his education up to the master’s degree level.
He said he was born in Ile-Ife on May 16, 1960, three days after the birth of Governor Ademola Adeleke, whom he described as his “Twin Brother”.
According to Momodu, his father, Jacob Momodu, migrated from Ihievbe, in present-day Edo State, to Ile-Ife, where he met his mother, who hailed from Gbongan Olufi in present-day Osun State.
He said his parents later married and that he was the only child of their union.
Momodu described his parents as “prayer warriors” who instilled in him the values of love and contentment.
“I had all my education in Ile-Ife, up to a Master’s degree, from 1966 to 1988, with intermittent breaks for different jobs that prepared me for a future of global fame and fortune. Ile-Ife was my rock,” he said.
The publisher said his connection with Osun State transcended political affiliations, stressing that he would remain a major stakeholder in the state irrespective of who governed it.
“I will forever remain a major stakeholder in Osun State, regardless of whoever is Governor,” he said.
Momodu explained that his support for Adeleke was based on what he described as the governor’s performance and not friendship or financial considerations.
“I supported Ademola Adeleke, not because he is my friend, or for pecuniary gains, but for the glaring evidence of his superlative performance,” he said.
He added that those seeking to claim ownership of the governor’s political success were free to do so, stressing that he was not competing with anyone.
“Those who wish to claim ownership now are welcome. I’m not in competition with anyone. I’m proud of my glorious heritage,” he said.
Momodu also stated that despite his access to influential men and women, he had never held public office or been part of government.
“I have never been in government or power, despite my uncommon access to men and women of influence. I thank my parents for their love and spiritual fortification. I’m a child of destiny… and I know who I am,” he said.
He also urged the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to exercise restraint, reminding him that life should not be measured solely by power and wealth.
“Mr Wike, cool temper. Life is not determined only by power and wealth. Remember tomorrow,” Momodu said.
Momodu, who is the founder and publisher of Ovations International, listed several traditional titles he holds across Nigeria and Liberia, including Aare of Iwo Kingdom, Basorun of Oke-Ila Orangun, Akinrogun of Gbonganland, Kiazolu of Grand Cape Mount County of Liberia, Onigege Ara of Jogaland, Ogwanusi of Imeri Kingdom, Ehanikhaye of Ihievbe Kingdom and Onu na Ekwuru Oha 1 of Etiti.
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