A former chief of Staff and media adviser to national leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Mr Sunday Dare, has withdrawn from the 2019 Oyo governorship race.
The Ogbomoso-born politician, who represents SouthWest on the board of the Nigeria Communication Commission, NCC, is one of the over 30 governorship aspirants jostling to succeed outgoing governor Abiola Ajimobi.
Dare’s withdrawal is coming 48 hours after Ajimobi asked aspirants to talk to themselves so as to prune down the number of aspirants to three.
Though he didn’t mention the person he stepped down for, he promised to work with whoever emerges candidate of the party.
Read his statement:
The last 10-12 months have been hectic but rewarding as I transited from passive politicking into active politics. I returned from diaspora politicking in Lagos to the Ogbomoso-Oyo axis. As they say all politics is local.
It began with a passion for my people. The DAD foundation was launched and continues its work of philanthropy across the State. It continued with a desire to be a major stakeholder in my State of Oyo.
It birthed in me the spirit and movement known as OYO on MY MIND. OMM. All towards the “Idagbasoke Ipinle Oyo”. I travelled to towns and villages in Oyo State. It brought me in touch with my people at the grassroots.
I spanned a new network of persons with the burning desire to work for the growth and development of Oyo State.
These germinated in my aspiration to lead Oyo State. It is an aspiration that remains strong and abiding. Aspirations have no expiry date. To be the governor of Oyo State is my aspiration. I bid and await God’s time. Because In His time He makes all things beautiful. God is indeed never late.
As the 2019 Guber race nears I will join with whoever emerges APC candidate to develop a blue print for the accelerated development of Oyo State. One that will build upon the dynamic foundation already laid by Governor Abiola Ajimobi. I will campaign vigorously for victory for our party, the APC. And when victory is won, I will remain deeply involved in delivering good governance to Oyo State.
My experience in the last one year without doubt has revealed that unless we participate actively we risk being ruled and led by mediocre. In my case, I am participating to raise the bar and the stakes. For many who have supported me and seen the potentials in me. I thank them and urge them to be patient.
I return to my new passion as the Convener of the Oyo Ronu Forum. ORF.
My work as the representative of the South West on the Board of the NCC continues to engage my full and loyal commitment.
Oyo Agbe Wa o !!!