Benin, Edo State. Senator Adams Oshiomhole, one-time governor of Edo State and a former Labour leader has publicly sought forgiveness from the Esama of Benin, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, for any past wrongs during his tenure as governor.
Oshiomole gave this public apology during a goodwill message at the banquet celebrating Igbinedion’s 90th birthday on Saturday in Benin.
Describing Igbinedion as a good father, Oshiomole praised the elder statesman’s contributions to society and sought atonement.
He recognised the crucial support he received from Igbinedion during his political career. He said, “I want to publicly acknowledge your support for me in 2007 and 2008, without which I might never have become the governor of Edo State,” he emphasised.
While expressing his gratitude for the advice and guidance Igbinedion provided, both known and unknown to him, over the years, Oshiomole said, “At 90, it is only right that I ask for your forgiveness for any of my actions that may have irritated you,” saying he might have done some things he shouldn’t have done as governor.
He said he has always been looking for one opportunity to say to the ‘’Esama of the universe’’ that he is sorry for any of the things that he said knowingly or unknowingly or any of the things that he did that a son should never have done to a father. “On your 90th birthday, I ask for your forgiveness, and I pray that you grant it.” He apologised.
“Having said that, I believe that you have forgiven me and I feel now able to reunite and hug my brother, Lucky Igbinedion.”
He also lauded the Esama’s visionary leadership in establishing Nigeria’s first private university and other ventures that had brought the country international recognition.
