Senator Adams Oshiomhole, the former Edo State Governor, has publicly sought forgiveness from Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin, for any potential wrongdoings during his tenure as governor 9 years ago. Oshiomhole offered this apology during a banquet in Benin on Saturday, commemorating Igbinedion’s 90th birthday. He referred to the Esama as a “good father” and lauded his societal contributions. In his message, Oshiomhole reflected on Igbinedion’s influence, describing him as a mentor and guide. He used the occasion to apologize for any past misunderstandings. “You brought together people from all parts of the country; North, South, East, and West, and across political and religious divides,” Oshiomhole said, acknowledging Igbinedion’s impact. Oshiomhole also expressed his gratitude for the support Igbinedion gave him during his political career. He openly acknowledged, “I want to publicly acknowledge your support for me in 2007 and 2008, without which I might never have become the governor of Edo State.” He thanked Igbinedion for the advice and guidance, some of which he may not have even been aware of at the time. “As a Catholic, I want to confess that I might have done some things I shouldn’t have done as governor,” Oshiomhole admitted. At 90 years of age, he said it was only right to ask for forgiveness for any of his actions that might have upset the Esama. He likened Igbinedion’s vast influence to a parent with many children, explaining that just as some children can cause frustration, the same could happen in a large circle of supporters. Oshiomhole humorously added, “That is the challenge of having too many children; you have tall ones, short ones, big ones, and small ones. And the small one turns out to be one of those that caused you harm.” He then expressed his desire to apologize openly, saying, “I have always looked for one opportunity to say to the Esama of the universe that I am sorry for any of the things that I said knowingly or unknowingly or any of the things that I did that a son should never have done to a father. On your 90th birthday, I ask for your forgiveness, and I pray that you grant it.” He also lightheartedly reflected on the challenges of parenthood, noting, “The only way to avoid children doing things you don’t like is not to have any. But with as many children as God has blessed you with, some are bound to irritate you. Even me, who has six children, sometimes I wonder why they do the things that I do not approve of.” Despite this, Oshiomhole expressed hope that the Esama had already forgiven him, allowing him to reconcile with Igbinedion’s son, Lucky Igbinedion. In conclusion, Oshiomhole praised Chief Igbinedion’s leadership, especially for establishing Nigeria’s first private university and other ventures that have earned international recognition for the country. ## A Public Confession and a Plea for Reconciliation: Oshiomhole's Apology to Igbinedion While the public apology may be perceived as a gesture of goodwill, it's worth noting the political context of the event. Oshiomhole's current role as a senator and his efforts to secure support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the upcoming Edo State governorship election add another layer to this public display of remorse. Oshiomhole’s statement reflects a desire to bridge past divides and seek forgiveness for any past transgressions. However, the political implications of this gesture cannot be ignored. This public reconciliation attempt could be seen as a strategic maneuver, aimed at garnering support from the influential Igbinedion family, a move that could potentially influence the outcome of the upcoming gubernatorial elections in the state. As the election approaches, the public will likely closely observe the impact of Oshiomhole’s apology on the political landscape of Edo State, and the extent to which it influences the dynamics of the upcoming election. It remains to be seen whether this public gesture of forgiveness will lead to a genuine reconciliation between Oshiomhole and the Igbinedion family, or if it is simply a strategic move in the upcoming election.