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| Gov. Adam Oshiomhola and Chief Tony Anenih at St. Anthony Catholic Church. Source: Nigerian tribune |
Ahead of the gubernatorial election in Edo State billed to hold later this year, the age-long political rift between Governor Adams Oshiomhole and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party's former Board of Trustee, Chief Tony Anenih have been resolved.
Anenih reunited with Governor Adams Oshiomhole in church, at the weekend, at the 10th anniversary of St Anthony’s Catholic Church, where the governor was given an award for his services to the church, Nigerian Tribune report says
According to Nigerian Tribune, Chief Anenih said he had forgiven the governor, whom he referred to as his son. This was as he noted that his immediate past health challenges made him realise the need to rise above politics and embrace peace with all men.
“I was in St. Paul’s Church in Benin, and as my son, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole said, we were all there appreciating the efforts of the Archbishop.
“I want to say this, it is not because Adams is here. Last night, I was telling my wife that I met Adams in the church and with my immediate medical experience, I have decided to forgive all those who offended me. And I specifically mentioned Adams.
“Adams, without you saying it, I have forgiven you. As you said when you were a Labour president, you were my son and you know it. You came into politics and you remain my son. So, the common cook that used to cook ogbono soup for us is still there,” Chief Anenih said
The governor, while noting the efforts of the church in nation building, said: “I believe that the fact that Nigerians live in relative peace and harmony, in spite of the failings and weaknesses of political leadership at all levels, is due to the power of your intercession and your prayers.
“We cannot thank you enough for your prayers and your support, in spite of our weaknesses.”
He praised the Catholic Church for bringing people of different political persuasions together under one roof for the church programme.
He said: “Yesterday, I found myself sitting in the front row and then I realised that most of those drivers and shakers of politics and ‘politricking’ in Edo State are all Catholics. That, for me, is revealing.
“For me, the church has caused all of us to reunite in the state. So, I reunite with my daddy, Chief Tony Anenih and several other PDP and All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders. And the Catholic Church brought together the national chairman of APC sitting side-by-side with the national leader of the PDP.
“May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ continue to moderate our actions and remind us of our oneness, of our commonality and of our shared commitment to work together to uplift our state and our great nation.”
The governor thanked the church for the award, saying “I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the honour done me by being invited to receive an award.”
having settled the political rift, will the duo work together in the forthcoming governorship election in Edo State despite their party affiliation? Time will tell