2027: Ogun West Cannot Achieve It Alone

Opinion:

BY ABU-SATAR HAMED

As I reflect on the ongoing discussions surrounding the ambitions of Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Omo to Yayi), representing Ogun West in the National Assembly, I feel compelled to offer a word of caution. We must be mindful of how we portray the Senator’s aspirations for the governorship of Ogun State in 2027 (biQudrilatiLLAH).

It’s crucial that we do not unintentionally create more adversaries for him, especially through the media channels that can easily amplify negative perceptions.

While I am not personally close to the Senator – an issue for another day – I consider myself a dedicated son of Ogun West and a committed stakeholder in our region’s bid for the governorship.

It is with this sense of responsibility that I cannot remain silent while some overly zealous individuals unknowingly jeopardize the hard work others are putting in to make this dream a reality.

We are all working toward the shared goal of securing a brighter future for Ogun West, and yet some are undermining this collective vision through their sensational media hype.

It’s painful to acknowledge that, since the creation of Ogun State, no one from Ogun West has had the opportunity to govern the state. This is a fact that remains a source of frustration for many of us, as Ogun West has always been one of the key pillars upon which this state stands.

But now, by the grace of God, we have a unifying figure – Omo to Yayi – who has earned the support of every son and daughter of Ogun West. This is a moment we must not squander by allowing emotions and sentiments to cloud our judgment.

I believe it is time for those who have made it their mission to attack anyone who opposes Yayi to stop. Instead, we should focus on promoting his accomplishments – not only in Ogun West, but across the entire state.

There’s a Yoruba proverb that says, “He who wishes to reach the market early will not listen to every dog that barks along the way.” This means we should not waste time responding to every dissenting voice; some opinions are best ignored.

In politics, as we all know, there are no permanent friends or enemies. Rather than attacking those who may disagree with Yayi’s ambition, we should focus on convincing them through the evidence of his good works.

Let’s show them that Senator Adeola has what it takes to lead Ogun State come 2027 (biQudratiLLAH), not only for the benefit of Ogun West but for the entire state.

Also, I urge those who have the Senator’s ear to advise him to take immediate steps to restructure his team. It’s essential that he surrounds himself with individuals who can contribute meaningfully to his vision – not just sycophants who boast of their loyalty without offering real value.

The time will come when even those who may initially oppose him will join the “Salvation Train” if they are convinced by his leadership. We should not close the door on anyone who wants to contribute positively to the cause, as no one is dispensable and everyone has something valuable to offer.

Let us also be careful with our words toward those who are not on our side for now. We need all hands on deck to achieve our collective goal.

Ogun West cannot do this alone. The journey ahead requires unity, collaboration, and a shared vision. “Agan ni oro to wa nile yi ooo…” (No one can do it alone).

A word is enough for the wise. Ire ooo!

*Elhadj (Otunba) Abu-Satar Hamed is the Otun Baaroyin of Ilaro-Yewa, and Publisher/Editor-in-Chief, StarTrend Int’l magazine and online platform.