Aregbesola Meets, Prays For One Of Those Who Tried To Kill Him

In a strong show of forgiveness and reconciliation, former Governor of Osun State and ex-Minister for Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, received Sikiru Olaboye, one of the men who attempted to assassinate him during the 2006 Oroki Day celebration in Osogbo.

The unexpected meeting, which took place on Sunday, February 2, 2025, underscored Aregbesola’s deep commitment to peace, faith, and divine justice.

Aregbesola revealed that he had been informed weeks earlier that Olaboye had called into a local radio station in Osogbo, publicly seeking his forgiveness.

Rather than dismiss the plea, Aregbesola chose to embrace the path of mercy.

“Today, while praying for him, I assured him that I hold no grudges against him or anyone else involved,” he stated. “I neither harbored resentment nor sought revenge after God spared me from that attack.”

The former governor’s response highlights his unwavering belief in divine justice and forgiveness. He emphasized that ultimate judgment belongs to God alone, adding, “It is God alone who has the power to forgive all our shortcomings. As His servants, I pray that He forgives both his and mine. Aamen!”

The 2006 Oroki Day attack remains a significant event in Osun’s political history, symbolizing the turbulence of that era. Yet, nearly two decades later, Aregbesola’s decision to forgive demonstrates the power of reconciliation in leadership.

Observers and supporters have praised his gesture as a lesson in humility and statesmanship. By choosing peace over vengeance, Aregbesola has set a powerful example of how past wounds can be healed through faith and compassion.

For Sikiru Olaboye, the moment of redemption came not just in seeking forgiveness but in receiving it from the man he once sought to harm. And for Aregbesola, it was another testimony to the grace of God—a grace that allows wounds to mend and adversaries to become brothers in faith.