Former governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo has sought forgiveness from Gabriel Igbinedion, father to another ex-governor of the state, Lucky Igbinedion, for any past wrongs during his tenure as governor.
During a goodwill message at a banquet celebrating Mr Igbinedion’s 90th birthday on Saturday in Benin, Mr Oshiomhole described the older Igbinedion as a good father, praised his contributions to society and took the opportunity to seek atonement.
“You brought together people from all parts of the country; North, South, East, and West and across political and religious divides,” Mr Oshiomhole said.
He recognised the support he received from Mr Igbinedion in his political career, saying, “I want to publicly acknowledge your support for me in 2007 and 2008, without which I might never have become the governor of Edo State.”
“As a Catholic, I want to confess that I might have done some things I shouldn’t have done as governor. At 90, it is only right that I ask for your forgiveness for any of my actions that may have irritated you,” Mr Oshiomhole added.
He compared Mr Igbinedion’s vast influence and support base to a parent with many children, some of whom inevitably cause frustration.
“That is the challenge of having too many children; you have tall ones, short ones, big ones, and small ones. And the small one turn out to be one of those that caused you harm,” Mr Oshiomhole said.
He continued, “I have always looked for one opportunity to say to the Esama of the universe that I am sorry for any of the things that I said knowingly or unknowingly or any of the things that I did that a son should never have done to a father.
“On your 90th birthday, I ask for your forgiveness, and I pray that you grant it.
“Having said that, I am believing that you have forgiven me and I feel now able to reunite and hug my own brother, Lucky Igbinedion,” the now senator added.
(NAN)
