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General News of Monday, 9 March 2020

Source: www.mynigeria.com

Army saved my life in 2007 and 2015 - Seyi Makinde

Seyi Makinde Seyi Makinde

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has pledged support to the military towards peace and security in the State.

Speaking at an event in honour of Major-General Anthony Bamidele Omozoje, the General Officer Commanding, GOC, 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Makinde recalled how his life was saved by the army in the 2007 and 2015 elections.

He said, “I want to especially thank the officers for the good work that they are doing to keep us safe and secure. To some people, it may be something new but to me, it is not. I have been saved twice from imminent death by the officers of this Division.

“The first experience was in 2007 when I was contesting to go to the Senate. On the day of election, my house was invaded by mobile policemen but I was rescued by the officers and was taken to Mokola Barracks where I stayed throughout the election. I did not even vote on the day of election, but I was happy that I came back unhurt due to the efforts of the officers of this 2 Division.

“Also, in 2015 when I was contesting to be the governor of this state, I was going to campaign in front of the family house of my opponent. Violence erupted but the officers of this division took charge and I was rescued unhurt. So, if I fast-track to Operation Burst, I am glad to say that anytime we have them going out for an operation, we sleep peacefully because we know they will do the necessary things.

He stated that he would have joined the army but his effort failed which made him opt to become an engineer.

“I tried to join the Nigerian Army because of two basic things; the organisation and the discipline. When it didn’t work out, I decided to be an engineer. There is similarity between the organisation and discipline of the army and that of the engineering profession.”

The governor who revealed that he had approved the renovation of schools in the barracks also promised that his administration would help all and sundry in the state.

“The last time I was at the WASA event, I spoke about two major things; the dilapidated school in the barracks and the Light-Up Oyo State Project. Because you have been selfless in taking the wellbeing of the people of the state as a top priority, I have given the approval for the renovation of the school.

“I also said that the second phase of the Light-Up project will not continue until we include Odogbo Barracks in it. In the next two or three weeks, we should approve the second phase, which we will make sure that it extends to the barracks.”