Former governor of Ogun State, Aremo Olusegun Osoba, on Tuesday, stated that suspicion and lack of trust are the primary reasons many presidents and governors avoid transferring leadership to their deputies.
Speaking in Abuja at the 3rd Annual Conference of the Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria, the veteran journalist expressed these concerns as he highlighted these challenges that is impacting on governance.
Describing the situation as unfortunate, Osoba noted that it is a global issue, not confined to Nigeria or Africa.
The former governor cited the political tension between former United States Vice President Al Gore and his principal, Bill Clinton, as an example.
He said, “It is most unfortunate. It is not just in Africa — it happens all over the world. You will recall the case of Al Gore and Bill Clinton. Al Gore was his vice president, and he contested the presidency. But because he thought Clinton might be a liability, he didn’t involve him in his campaign.
“So, this issue is not limited to Nigeria. It is rare to see a deputy succeeding their boss.
However, there are still opportunities for such individuals in this country. As I mentioned earlier, the array of leaders who are still young and passionate about Nigeria, even from what we have seen at this conference, gives us confidence that one day, one of them will emerge as the president of this country.”
Osoba also lamented the persistent trend of governors plotting or sponsoring impeachment against their deputies.
On whether the constitution could be amended to protect deputies from their superiors in government, the politician said there was little anyone could do.
“Again, you can’t amend the constitution against governors using their influence and powers to impeach their deputies. There is nothing anybody can do about it. If the State House of Assembly is friendly with the governor, he can attempt anything, including impeaching his deputy.
“What we should continue to promote is for leaders to build relationships. It is not by law but through relationship. As they say, you wash your hands with both the left and right—it’s through cooperation,” he stated.
