Former Commissioner of Police in Lagos and Benue states, Fatai Owoseni, has declared that he is not a political disciple or loyalist of any individual as he intensifies consultations ahead of the 2027 Oyo State governorship race under the Accord Party.
Owoseni, who recently resigned his appointments as Special Adviser on Security to Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, and Executive Secretary of the Oyo State Security Trust Fund, OYSSTF, made the remarks during an interview on ‘Gbangbalasata’, a weekend programme on Splash FM Ibadan anchored by Abiodun Adewole, popularly known as Mr Double A.
During the interview, the Retired Police Commissioner dismissed claims that he belongs to any political camp or operates as a loyalist to Governor Makinde, insisting that his loyalty remains with the people of Oyo State.
According to him, the word “disciple” has deep spiritual meanings rooted in religious teachings and should not be loosely applied in politics.
“The word disciple came from spiritual books, the Bible and the Quran. You hear about disciples of Jesus and disciples of Prophet Mohammed. I can’t say I’m a disciple of Seyi Makinde and I can’t say I’m his follower,” he said.
“I’m Fatai Owoseni and Fatai Owoseni is Fatai Owoseni. I spent 35 years in public service and I also came from a family background with values. In police work, I faced temptations, challenges and trials and overcame them.”
He explained that throughout his career in the Nigeria Police Force, his allegiance was never to individuals but to the Nigerian Constitution and the people.
“You can’t say I’m a disciple of an Inspector-General of Police or even the President. My obligation has always been to the Constitution of Nigeria. My responsibility is to the people and government itself,” he added.
Owoseni further stressed that his political mission is not about seeking personal loyalty from supporters but about building a movement committed to the welfare and progress of Oyo State.
“I’m not looking for loyalists. I’m looking for people loyal to Oyo State and its future. I’m loyal to the people of Oyo State and I want to contribute to the growth and development of the state,” he stated.
Speaking on his relationship with Governor Makinde after resigning from the administration, Owoseni said there is no rift between them, describing the governor as a longtime friend and brother.
“I’ve known the governor since 2019. We are brothers and friends. Our family houses are close,” he said.
The former police commissioner also maintained that his governorship ambition is not a “do-or-die” affair, noting that his primary objective is to add value to the state irrespective of political outcomes.
According to him, his interest in contesting is inspired by his desire to build on the achievements of previous administrations and further reposition Oyo State for greater development.
“It is not a do-or-die affair. My interest is to promote Oyo State and help secure its future. Governor Seyi Makinde and previous governors have changed the face of Oyo State in different ways, and I also want to contribute my own quota,” Owoseni said.
