By Peace Erewunmi

Former Oyo State Deputy Governor Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja has disclosed that the late former Attorney General of the Federation, Chief Bola Ige, sponsored his education in the United Kingdom, while President Bola Ahmed Tinubu later intervened to restore his security details after they were withdrawn by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.

Arapaja made the remarks during a visit to the residence of APC leader Alhaji Mufutau Adisa Gbayawu in Ibadan, shortly after returning to the All Progressives Congress (APC). He described his defection as a return to his political roots and expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for welcoming him back into the party.

Reflecting on his political journey, Arapaja said Chief Bola Ige financed his UK scholarship, adding that upon his return to Nigeria, progressive leaders supported his entry into politics, leading to his election as a local government chairman. He also praised his late father for his contributions to progressive politics alongside prominent figures such as Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Lamidi Adedibu.

The former deputy governor criticized the Oyo State Government, alleging that it adopted a “use and dump” approach toward loyal party members. He pledged his loyalty to the APC and vowed to work with party leaders to secure victories for President Tinubu and other APC candidates in the 2027 general elections.