12th May, 2024
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has told the Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke to keep dancing but never to shun working for the good of his state.
Adeleke is known for dancing in the public, a trait that has led some people to criticise him and see him as not serious with governance.
But Obasanjo who was speaking at the inauguration of a VIP lodge in Osun Government House, on Sunday in Osogbo, called Adeleke his dancing partner.
He said: “You remember that at one time I phoned you; I told you I didn’t have problems with your dancing. I said, ‘don’t leave dancing, but as you are dancing, ensure you are working.
“Some people once despise you as just a dancer, but I said only happy people dance; you are my dancing partner.
“You have to be honest with your conscience, with the people and with your God.
“You have to be a man of character. Let people say ‘when he sees opportunity to dance, he will dance, but he is a man of integrity, he is honest and works hard. It is very important.
“Anywhere we meet, we would dance and rejoice, if anybody wants to abuse us, they should go ahead,” he said.
Obasanjo acknowledged some of what he saw as the achievements of the Osun helmsman.
He said: “You are working on roads, don’t joke with it because when we make necessary provision for the people to have jobs, the state will work.
“Many Yoruba people want to work, but what is impeding that is the road to ply.
“When we provide wherewithal for them, they would work. I will plead with you to continue with that.
“You said government is a continuum and that all the abandoned projects are being completed. God will make it good for you,” he said