.......Veteran Ogun politician says decision is personal, pledges to focus on community development and traditional responsibilities
By Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo
ABEOKUTA, July 1, 2026 — A prominent Ogun State politician and traditional title holder, Chief Joju Fadairo, on Wednesday formally announced his retirement from partisan politics, bringing to a close a political career that spanned several decades at both the state and national levels.
Fadairo made the announcement during a world press conference held at his private residence in the Government Reservation Area (GRA), Abeokuta, where he declared that his decision was voluntary, personal, and reached after careful reflection.
Addressing journalists, the veteran politician dismissed any suggestion that his resignation was prompted by political pressure, internal party disagreements, or any hidden agenda, stressing that the decision was solely his.
"For the purpose of clarity and to dispel any possible misconceptions, I consider it necessary to clearly state that this decision is purely personal and devoid of any hidden motives or external pressures. It is a well-considered choice made after deep reflection," he said.
Fadairo explained that after many years of active participation in Nigeria's political process, he believes he has made meaningful contributions to the development of democratic governance and public service.
According to him, the time has come to step aside and allow a new generation of leaders to continue the task of nation-building, adding that every phase of life has its appropriate season.
"Having actively participated in the political landscape of our great nation at both the state and national levels for several decades, I am convinced that I have made my contributions and fulfilled my obligations. I believe the time has come for me to step aside and take a well-deserved rest," he stated.
The elder statesman used the occasion to express profound appreciation to members of his family, political associates, supporters, loyalists, and well-wishers whose encouragement and unwavering support, he noted, sustained him throughout his political journey.
He also acknowledged the media for its role in chronicling his political activities over the years and thanked journalists for their professionalism and support.
In what appeared to be the highpoint of the announcement, Fadairo declared that with immediate effect, he would no longer belong to or identify with any political party, emphasizing that he intends to remain neutral in political affairs.
He said his new status would enable him to serve as a father figure to all political interests, offering counsel, goodwill, and support without partisan considerations.
"Following my retirement from active politics, I hereby declare that, effective immediately, I shall no longer be affiliated with or aligned to any political party. I will henceforth assume the role of a father to all, maintaining neutrality and offering goodwill without partisan inclination," he declared.
Despite retiring from active politics, Fadairo assured the people of Ogun State that he would remain committed to the development of his community and the state through non-political engagements.
He disclosed that he intends to devote more time to his traditional responsibilities as the Asiwaju of Ifoland and the Fiwagbayi of Egbaland, while continuing to champion initiatives that promote peace, unity, and development.
"I will continue to work for the progress of my community and the state and have more time to discharge my traditional responsibilities," he said.
Reaffirming his position, Fadairo declared that he would no longer participate in partisan political activities from this day forward and wished his former political colleagues success in their future endeavours.
He concluded the briefing by thanking members of the press for honouring his invitation and prayed for God's blessings upon everyone present.
The announcement marks the end of an era for one of Ogun State's long-serving political figures, whose involvement in public affairs has earned him recognition across political and traditional institutions. While his exit from partisan politics signals a significant personal transition, his commitment to community service and traditional leadership suggests that he will continue to play an influential role in the socio-cultural development of Ogun State.
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