Allow your successors to work – Saraki Advises Outgoing Governors

Former President of the Senate, Sen. Bukola Saraki, has advised outgoing governors to avoid unnecessary influence on their successors after leaving office on May 29.

The former governor of Kwara gave the advice at a farewell dinner for outgoing governors organised by the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) on Sunday in Abuja.

Saraki, former chairman of the forum also advised governors-elect not to allow people around them to push them into frosty relationship with their predecessors.

“Outgoing, governors please from June 1 you are no longer governors; please allow your successors to do the work they have to do.

“Let them call you when they want your advice. For those that are coming, those around you will always want you to have a `head-on’ with your predecessors.

“It is a big mistake. It is unnecessary. Challenges ahead are beyond that,’’ he admonished.

While congratulating outgoing governors for successfully completing their tenures, Saraki also advised them to continue to play their roles in nation building.

“It is important that you play your role because this country needs everyone across all political parties.

“As you bow out as governors, you are going into a phase that is different and challenging. Brace up for challenges ahead. Spend more time with your families,” Saraki advised.

The former Senate president also advised incoming governors to start planning for their legacies from Day One in office.

“I pray and hope you will not be a governor for the sake of being a governor. You will be a governor that will impact on the people.

“Plan for those four or eight years and keep on challenging yourselves everyday to make an impact,’’ Saraki said.