Ismail Omipidan, former Chief Press Secretary to ex-Osun Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, has raised concerns about the loyalty of former Governor Rauf Aregbesola within President Bola Tinubu’s political circle. Reflecting on past political events, Omipidan revealed he warned Tinubu as early as 2018 about Aregbesola’s influence, based on his observations during the 2017 Ondo and 2018 Osun governorship elections.
In an excerpt from his new book Persona Non-Grata, Omipidan shared how he supported Aregbesola’s 2014 re-election campaign, even funding a six-man media team independently. Despite this, he criticized Aregbesola’s political arrogance and its impact on Oyetola’s failed re-election bid in 2022. He also cited Aregbesola’s lukewarm stance toward Tinubu’s presidential ambition as vindication of his earlier reservations.
Omipidan concluded by urging politicians to embrace humility and introspection. He praised the late Senator Abiola Ajimobi’s efforts in Osun politics, contrasting it with Aregbesola’s approach, which he described as dismissive during critical electoral moments.