Adams Oshiomhole, a former governor of Edo State, has publicly sought forgiveness from Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin, for any wrongs committed during his time in office.
In a goodwill message delivered at the banquet celebrating Igbinedion’s 90th birthday on Saturday in Benin, Oshiomhole referred to Igbinedion as a “good father” and commended his significant contributions to society. He used the occasion to express his desire for atonement and seek reconciliation.
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He said, “You brought together people from all parts of the country; North, South, East, and West and across political and religious divides.”
Oshiomhole publicly acknowledged the vital support he received from Igbinedion throughout his political career.
“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 said.
He also expressed his gratitude for the advice and guidance Igbinedion had provided, both acknowledged and unrecognized, throughout the years.
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“As a Catholic, I want to confess that I might have done some things I shouldn’t have done as governor.
“At 90, it is only right that I ask for your forgiveness for any of my actions that may have irritated you,” he added.
He compared Igbinedion’s vast influence and large number of supporters to a parent with many children, some of whom inevitably cause frustration.
The former governor said, “That is the challenge of having too many children; you have tall ones, short ones, big ones, and small ones.
“And the small one turns out to be one of those that caused you to harm.”
He continued, “I have always looked for one opportunity to say to the Esama of the universe that I am sorry for any of the things that I said knowingly or unknowingly or any of the things that I 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 lightheartedly reflected on parenthood, stating, “The only way to avoid children doing things you don’t like is not to have any.
“But with as many children as God has blessed you with, some are bound to irritate you.
“Even me that have six children, sometimes I wonder why they do the things that I do not approve of.
“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 praised the Esama’s visionary leadership in founding Nigeria’s first private university and other initiatives that have garnered international recognition for the country.
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