Why I shunned partisan politics, by Diya

ABEOKUTA—Former Chief of General Staff in the administration of former Head of State, late Gen. Sanni Abacha, Lt.-Gen. Oladipo Diya, has said that he prefers to play the role of elder statesman rather than being actively involved in partisan politics.

Diya, who was number two citizen of the country, spoke weekend, at the inauguration of General Oladipo Diya Public Speaking Competition for Schools in Ogun State, held at Odogbolu town hall,Odogbolu, Ogun State.

He said though, age was no more on his side for partisan politics, he still plays roles in nation building.

He said: “It is either you are quiet or you are not partisan in politics. But, there is no human being that is completely out of politics. All you do is that,you remain in the background,you sit and watch and that’s all.

“Now, I prefer to remain in back seat and watch events from the sideline. When we meet the leaders of our nation, it is not that, we just sit down and eat,we deliberate on topical issues.”

When asked whether he should be seen as a card carrying member of all political parties, following his decision to remain an elder statesman, Diya declared “Yes,say it that way. Like our president says, I am for everybody and I am for nobody.”

When asked about his disposition to his former boss’ action against him, Diya said he has since forgiven the late Head of State and his family, adding that he thanked God for sparing his life in spite of his ordeal.

“First and foremost, we have to realize that we are either Christians or Muslims. Whatever it is,  we believe in one thing, God exists.

“Whatever anybody might have done, by gone is bygone. What is important now is today and the future. Today, I am grateful to God because I retired as a Lieutenant General. How many people can rise to the position of Lt General, to the rank of being a former Vice President, or being the former successful governor. I give glory to God and I will continue to thank my creator,” he said.

On his assessment of the Buhari administration, Diya said it is too early to start assessing the present federal government.

According to him, “It has not even spent a year in office.

“Everybody should be patient. This government is new, not even up to a year yet. So, let us be patient and anything we have to say, let us say it quietly.”