Mark Tells Aregbesola To 'Behave Like A Governor, Not Area Boy'

ABUJA, Dec 28, (THEWILL) - The President of the Senate, Senator David Mark today reacted to the allegations by the Governor of Osun State Rauf Aregbesola to the effect that Mark and the Vice President Namadi Sambo are raising funds to destabilize his state.

He urged Aregbesola to behave like a ‘State Governor and not like an area boy.’

The Senate President who spoke through his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Paul Mumeh said he ordinarily would not ‘elevate such idle talk’ with a response but for the enquiries from friends, associates and the general public on the allegation.

Aregbesola was widely reported in the media to have said that prominent Nigerians including Vice President Namadi Sambo and President of the Senate, Senator David Mark were involved in the plot to raise N1 billion to destabilize his administration.

Mark said he frowns at this falsehood and unwarranted attack on his person and Office of the President of the Senate and demanded an unreserved apology from Aregbesola or would be left with no option than to seek legal redress.

"For the avoidance of doubt, the President of the Senate is a statesman who believes in the rule of law and commitment to development that will improve the lives of Nigerians.

"It is therefore unthinkable and an affront for Aregbesola to link the President of the Senate to issues that do not engender progress or development," the Chief Press Secretary said.

Mumeh said the President of the Senate is a builder, a lawmaker and adherent to democratic ideals. He believes in the right of every one to express his or her views but in doing so, it should not impugn or insult the sensibilities of others.

"We do not want to be dragged into the politics of Osun State. We can only advise Aregbesola that what the people of Osun State desire is purposeful leadership, development that affects them positively and making the society a better place and not mudslinging."

He said the Osun State Governor should also be reminded that resort to abuse or disparaging leaders in the name of politics would not earn him laurels.

"Aregbesola must imbibe the culture of respect for elders, decorum and learn to control his tongue. He should behave like a State Governor and not an area boy," he said.