Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has urged Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke not to stop dancing, describing the latter as his dancing partner.

Obasanjo also told Adeleke, who is usually referred to as the ‘dancing governor’, to focus on governing the state and do so with honesty and integrity.

The former president said this at the inauguration of a VIP lodge at Osun Government House in Osogbo, the state capital, on Sunday, May 12, 2024.

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 despised 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.

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“Anywhere we meet, we would dance and rejoice, if anybody wants to abuse us, they should go ahead.”

Obasanjo also commended Adeleke on his developmental programmes in Osun.

According to him, what he heard and saw since his arrival in the state was a testimony to the good work the governor was doing.

Obasanjo added: “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.”

In his remarks, Adeleke said his administration would continue to ensure that laudable projects were completed for the common use of the people.

The governor, who noted that the VIP lodge was started by the All Progressives Congress (APC) government, said he completed it due to his belief that public infrastructure should not be politicised.

“We assure all lovers of good governance that our administration is passionate about delivering on quality pro-people policies for the benefit of all residents of the state,” he said.

The Star