LET THE GOOD OLD DAYS PREVAIL, EX-LG LEADER APPEALS TO OJO, AYANDELE OVER 50-YEAR FRIENDSHIP

A former Leader of the House and Chief of Staff, Ibarapa Central Local Government, Rt. Hon. Soji Akinteye, has appealed to Otunba ‘Demola Ojo, current Oyo State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy matters and Dr. ‘Shola Ayandele to reconcile and let their over 50 years childhood friendship prevail over current disagreements.

In an open appeal letter titled _”Let The Good Old Days Prevail Over Today’s Disagreements”_ personally signed and made available to Asako News on Thursday, Akinteye said it was painful to see two great sons of Ibarapa Central whose friendship meant so much become sworn enemies.

“There is a saying that when two brothers fight, the enemy rejoices, and when two childhood friends become sworn enemies, history weeps,” Akinteye stated.

He recalled that before titles, positions, influence and political differences, both leaders shared a bond built on shared experiences, mutual trust and memories from their days at Igbo-Ora High School in the 70s.

“Life is too short, and friendship is too precious to be sacrificed on the altar of pride, anger, and unresolved grievances. Whatever has transpired between you, I appeal to both of you to take a step back and reflect on the good old days. Remember where you started, the battles you fought together, the dreams you shared which came to pass. Some of your mates are late, some are looking up to you with hope,” he appealed.

Akinteye also drew attention to the 2021 political machinations against some of their once-loyal subordinates, saying the episode deserves honest reflection.

“Loyalty should never be treated as a weakness, and the trust of those who stood by you should never be taken for granted. None of us is beyond the reach of the consequences of our actions. Positions may change, political fortunes may rise and fall, but principles of fairness, accountability and justice remain,” he said.

He clarified that his appeal was not to reopen old wounds or humiliate anyone, but an invitation to wisdom, maturity and reconciliation.

“If mistakes were made, let there be the courage to acknowledge them. If apologies are necessary, let them be offered sincerely. And if forgiveness is possible, let it be extended in the spirit of humanity,” he noted.

The former House Leader urged both leaders to call themselves to order and not allow present differences to destroy the history they built together.

“You were friends/brothers before the present misunderstanding, and there is no reason you cannot find a path back to mutual respect. Please, let this matter slide — not because justice does not matter, but because wisdom sometimes demands that reconciliation be given a chance,” Akinteye said.

He added that nobody wins when old friends become bitter enemies, stressing that even when one believes he has won an argument, both lose the peace that comes from a tested friendship.

“Let your years of friendship speak louder than your present differences. Let maturity prevail over anger, conscience over pride, and forgiveness over vengeance. Tomorrow is never guaranteed,” he said.

Akinteye concluded with a humble appeal for forgiveness and moving forward, so that the good old times could return.

“May wisdom guide you both, may conscience speak to your hearts, and may peace prevail so that at the end, we shall glorify the name of the Lord,” he added.