I love Osun State, ‘I no go lie’ — Dele Momodu

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Dele Momodu

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Renowned journalist and publisher, Chief Dr Dele Momodu, has reaffirmed his strong attachment to Osun State, describing himself as a major stakeholder in the state regardless of who occupies the governorship.

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Momodu, in a personal reflection, said his connection with Osun State dated back to his birth and upbringing in Ile-Ife, where he spent his formative years and obtained his education up to the master’s degree level.

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He said he was born in Ile-Ife on May 16, 1960, three days after the birth of Governor Ademola Adeleke, whom he described as his “Twin Brother”.

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According to Momodu, his father, Jacob Momodu, migrated from Ihievbe, in present-day Edo State, to Ile-Ife, where he met his mother, who hailed from Gbongan Olufi in present-day Osun State.

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He said his parents later married and that he was the only child of their union.

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Momodu described his parents as “prayer warriors” who instilled in him the values of love and contentment.

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“I had all my education in Ile-Ife, up to a Master’s degree, from 1966 to 1988, with intermittent breaks for different jobs that prepared me for a future of global fame and fortune. Ile-Ife was my rock,” he said.

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The publisher said his connection with Osun State transcended political affiliations, stressing that he would remain a major stakeholder in the state irrespective of who governed it.

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“I will forever remain a major stakeholder in Osun State, regardless of whoever is Governor,” he said.

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Momodu explained that his support for Adeleke was based on what he described as the governor’s performance and not friendship or financial considerations.

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“I supported Ademola Adeleke, not because he is my friend, or for pecuniary gains, but for the glaring evidence of his superlative performance,” he said.

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He added that those seeking to claim ownership of the governor’s political success were free to do so, stressing that he was not competing with anyone.

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“Those who wish to claim ownership now are welcome. I’m not in competition with anyone. I’m proud of my glorious heritage,” he said.

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Momodu also stated that despite his access to influential men and women, he had never held public office or been part of government.

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“I have never been in government or power, despite my uncommon access to men and women of influence. I thank my parents for their love and spiritual fortification. I’m a child of destiny… and I know who I am,” he said.

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He also urged the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to exercise restraint, reminding him that life should not be measured solely by power and wealth.

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“Mr Wike, cool temper. Life is not determined only by power and wealth. Remember tomorrow,” Momodu said.

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Momodu, who is the founder and publisher of Ovations International, listed several traditional titles he holds across Nigeria and Liberia, including Aare of Iwo Kingdom, Basorun of Oke-Ila Orangun, Akinrogun of Gbonganland, Kiazolu of Grand Cape Mount County of Liberia, Onigege Ara of Jogaland, Ogwanusi of Imeri Kingdom, Ehanikhaye of Ihievbe Kingdom and Onu na Ekwuru Oha 1 of Etiti.

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