Senator representing Osun West Senatorial Zone, Isiaka Adeleke, has denied plans to contest the 2018 governorship in the state.
He described the speculations as a “wicked rumour from his political detractors.”
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Alhaji Olumide Lawal, the lawmaker, who is the first democratically elected governor of the state, said he is focused on his current assignment in the National Assembly and not interested in succeeding Governor Rauf Aregbesola in 2018.
He said: “I am out to give my best as far as my legislative duties in the 8th Senate are concerned. I want to give Nigerians value for their votes through a far-reaching legislation and thorough oversight functions. I am also out to complement the efforts of the Osun State government so as to make the residents live as comfortable as possible.
“I am determined to ensure that my membership of the 8th Senate attracts people-oriented projects to Osun West Senatorial District. I believe this will keep my constituency many steps ahead of others. I also believe that only God Almighty shall decide my political future both in Osun State and Nigeria. So, let us wait till we get to the bridge before we start talking about how to cross it. 2018 or 2019 is still far away.”
He enjoined the people of state to support the Rauf Aregbesola-led administration in proffering solutions to the myriad of challenges facing the state, while praying for the quick resolution of salary impasse in the state.
Urging the labour unions, workers and pensioners in the state to toe the line of peace, the lawmaker however advised the state government to make the forthcoming Sallah celebration a happy one for the workers and retirees by quickly effecting the payment of their salaries and pensions.