Osoba Defends Political Godfatherism, Says He Never Imposes Appointees on Governors

Former Ogun State Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba, has defended his position as a political godfather, insisting that he does not interfere in the administration of elected governors or impose political appointments on them.

Osoba made the disclosure during an interview.

The former governor said his approach to political mentorship was based on offering guidance and advice rather than dictating government appointments or influencing administrative decisions.

“I agree, I’m a godfather. But one thing that is working for me in my state is that I hardly interfere. I counsel and advise him. I have never nominated one person into his government,” Osoba said.

He was referring to his relationship with the incumbent Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, whose administration he said he had deliberately avoided interfering with.

Osoba explained that imposing political loyalists on an elected governor could undermine the governor’s authority and create unnecessary divisions among supporters.

He noted that recommending one individual for an appointment could generate resentment among other political associates who might equally consider themselves qualified for government positions.

The elder statesman also warned that individuals appointed through the influence of powerful political figures could face suspicion from other members of the administration, potentially affecting their working relationships.

Reflecting on his own tenure as Ogun State governor, Osoba recalled adopting an approach that allowed each federal constituency to nominate candidates for commissioner positions.

According to him, he requested one name from each federal constituency and subsequently assessed the nominees’ qualifications before assigning them portfolios.

Osoba maintained that political godfathers have a responsibility to recognise and appreciate individuals who contributed to electoral campaigns but should not dictate how elected officials administer government.

His comments have renewed conversations about political godfatherism, executive independence and the influence of political patrons in Nigeria’s democratic system.

The debate remains particularly relevant as political parties and influential figures begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba says political godfathers should offer advice rather than impose appointments on elected governors, explaining his relationship with Dapo Abiodun.