I recently attended the celebration of life for our beloved departed Olubadan of Ibadan land, Late Oba Mahood Olalekan Balogun, at Liberty Stadium. It was a poignant moment, graced by the presence of Governor Seyi Makinde, who made a sterling revelation about his efforts in installing the new Olubadan of Ibadan land. The governor said, “I have seen the recommendation of the Olubadan-in-Council and I have accepted it. We will enthrone our father, Oba Olakulehin, as soon as he is strong enough, because due process has been followed.”
Before we left the venue, many people were dissecting his speech, interpreting it both positively and negatively. If there is no political maneuvering behind this decision, I welcome it wholeheartedly. Nevertheless, we must remember not to throw the baby out with the bathwater.
As a staunch supporter of Governor Makinde, I hold him in high regard. As governor, he has unrestricted access to information about the state and its residents. Despite a few rumors peddled about his administration, which I personally investigated and found to be false, he has performed remarkably well. He has managed our resources for the benefit of the people of Oyo State. His name will surely be etched in gold if he continues on this path.
However, I’ve heard troubling rumors about some of his aides, particularly one allegedly using state funds to purchase land. I strongly doubt this, as the governor understands the implications. Any official found guilty of such actions will face serious legal consequences after the governor’s tenure. Governor Makinde is a successful businessman and does not need to tarnish his name over a parcel of land.
The governor must be wary of sycophants in his administration. History has shown that a king may be enthroned who knows not Joseph. I am also concerned about the news regarding land development in Oyo State. Modernizing the state with new estates is a step in the right direction, creating job opportunities for our youth. Governor Makinde has been forward-thinking in opening Oyo State to positive global trends, and I commend him for this. However, he must scrutinize his government closely and sanction any appointee found wanting.
Governor Makinde, do not let anyone destroy the good name you have built over the years. We have been friends since primary school, and our bond should not be broken by anyone. Recently, when the Olugbon of Ile Igbon asked who I would support if both Seyi Makinde and Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu were running for president, I did not hesitate to declare my support for Makinde. I see myself as an Ibadan man first, an Oyo State indigene second, a Yoruba man third, and a Nigerian last. If Seyi Makinde contests and wins a presidential ticket, I will not stay in Dublin writing epistles; I will return and campaign for him, investing in his campaign.
What joy would surpass seeing my childhood friend become the President of Nigeria? My place of birth and my relationships matter deeply to me. A friendship of over fifty years means that if we win, we win together; if we lose, glory be to God. But the governor has not expressed any intention of contesting after his tenure. We are here, focusing on fixing our state with the limited federal allocation compared to our large number of civil servants.
My prayer is that Almighty Allah will continue to grant him wisdom to pioneer the significant projects ahead. Additionally, we need more Ibadan elites in his government, as we are uncomfortable being relegated to a secondary position in state affairs.
Thank you, “Zico,” the name you earned after the great Brazilian footballer during our primary school days.
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