Awori seek governorship slots, others in Lagos, Ogun states

The Awori yesterday argued that it was high time they got the governorship positions in Lagos and Ogun states.Speaking at the celebration of Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, on her leadership position, they charged Lagos and Ogun states to allow them produce governors, representatives at the National Assembly, states assembly, as well as commissioners and special advisers.

Some leaders of the Awori clan had earlier decried absence of its indigenes in the list of commissioner-nominees in Lagos State, describing the situation as a case of injustice and marginalisation in appointments into the states’ leadership positions.

They urged National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to assist them in the interest of fairness and justice.

Chairman of the event, Michael Olawale-Cole, lamented that despite the Awori being the founding fathers of Lagos, constituting the bulk of the indigenous population of Lagos and 31 per cent of Ogun population, they were being marginalised in the governance of both states.He said the Awori hold strategic positions in the socio-economic life of both states, noting that it was worrisome and unfair that an Awori indigene has never been elected governor.He, however, appealed to the authorities in both states to end the injustice meted to the Awori indigenes, saying the consequences of ignoring their request could be better imagined.

“We must avoid repeating the agitation against marginalisation that led to crisis in the Niger Delta, because it will create unpleasant development for the communities.

“What is the future of our children if we are continuously denied our deserved rights in our own land,? he asked.Chairman, Organising Committee, Professor Babatunde Salako, who commended Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun for choosing an Awori as his deputy, assured him of support during his tenure.He noted that several Awori indigenes hold sway in many areas of endeavour, contributing to national development and nation building, and appeal to all Awori indigenes to be actively involved in politics at all levels to change the narrative.

Speaking, President, Awori Welfare Association of Nigeria (AWAN), Solomon Ojolowo pointed out that the Awori have only occupied deputy governors positions in Lagos and Ogun, while hoping that the governorship position would get to them.Responding, Salako-Oyedele commended Abiodun for choosing her as his deputy, assuring that their tenure would have positive impact on the people of Ogun and the Awori.