Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State said the Nigerian Army had saved him from imminent death on two occasions.
Makinde spoke at a reception organized in his honour by the General Officer Commanding, 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Anthony Omozoje, at the Tiger’s Den, Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, Odogbo, Ibadan, Oyo State.
He said, “To some people, it may be something new but to me, it is not. I had 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 the 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.
“If I fast-track that 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.”
The governor also lauded the Army for being organized and disciplined in their duties, noting that the attributes were similar to what obtains in engineering.
He stated that his administration would continue to provide social amenities for the well-being of all and sundry in the state, adding that he had approved the renovation of the school in the barracks.
“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 top priority, I have given the approval for the renovation of the school,” he said.