Former GTBank founder and politician may head Nigeria’s apex bank after Emefiele’s exit
Why Segun Agbaje, GTBank MD, should curry his favour anytime soon
By Sola Abiodun
Fortune favours the bold and prepared. Had Alexander Fleming not possessed immense knowledge and an unrelenting gift of scrutiny, he wouldn’t have discovered the effect of the hyssop mould. Fola Adeola, former vice presidential aspirant and Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) founder, would no doubt gain a lot by emulating the late Scottish Botanist and Pharmacologist. Like Fleming, Adeola needs to improve his thirst for knowledge and continually hone his power of observation in order to reinforce his competence and appeal as a worthy candidate for the position of Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). This becomes imperative in the wake of rumours about current CBN governor, Godwin Emefiele’s likelihood of moving on from his enviable position to greener pasture. If Emefiele actually moves on, the position of the CBN governor is likely to be filled by Adeola who the rumour mill identifies as President Muhammadu Buhari’s preferred successor to the current CBN governor. Already, friends and associates of Adeola have started treating him to a garland of sobriquets and compliments worthy of a CBN governor. Adeola, following his successful spell as co-founder of GTBank (with late Tayo Aderinokun) made his foray into politics as vice presidential candidate and running mate of ex-presidential aspirant, Nuhu Ribadu, on the platform of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN). Although he was unsuccessful with in politics, Adeola made remarkable appearance in the political circuit thus catching the attention of the incumbent president. But while Adeola prepares himself for the tasking role ahead to the delight of his family, close friends and associates, Segun Agbaje, current Managing Director of GTBank will be afflicted by mixed feelings. And the reason is not farfetched: Agbaje and Adeola do not see eye to eye and due to the iciness between them, both men keep a decent distance between them. However, sources close to the duo assert that Agbaje may need to swallow the humble pie and start patronizing Adeola anytime soon. This may prevent the latter from gunning for his hide in the event that he becomes the CBN governor as speculated.
