Senator Yayi’s Leadership, Achievements: Opportunity Ogun West Has Long Awaited – Oniyide

SHEFFIELD, SOUTH YORKSHIRE – An indigene of Ogun West, Mr. Obafemi G. Oniyide, who has resided in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, for the past 19 years, shared his perspective on the political landscape in Ogun West during an interview with Abu-Satar Hamed in Sheffield

Back home, the people of Ilaro and Yewa as a whole are rallying support for Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola Yayi to become the Governor of Ogun State in 2027. What are your views on this development?

This is a golden opportunity for Ogun West to finally have one of its own as governor. It will bring a transformative impact to Yewaland, which has suffered marginalization for so long. I strongly urge all Ogun West indigenes to unite and support Senator Yayi for the 2027 governorship election.

We need to set aside grudges and embrace Senator Yayi as a true Yewa man committed to contesting the election. If we miss this opportunity, it may take a very long time before we get another chance like this.

Yayi has shown through his developmental projects, even from the UK, that he is a son of the soil. He has facilitated road reconstruction, scholarships for students, school renovations, and economic empowerment. His achievements are visible across Ogun West and the state at large.

The interviews highlighted widespread support for Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola Yayi among Ogun State indigenes in the UK. The call for unity, fairness, and collective progress resonates strongly as Ogun West looks ahead to 2027.

What are your thoughts on Yayi’s achievements so far as a Senator representing Ogun West?
Yayi has been phenomenal. In his relatively short time at the National Assembly, he has championed numerous development projects. From rebuilding dilapidated roads to awarding scholarships, constructing schools, and empowering local communities, Yayi has proven his commitment to the growth of, not only Ogun West, but the state as whole.

His efforts extend to building shopping malls, renovating schools, and supporting trade unions across the state. These accomplishments earn him my personal commendation.

 What is your opinion on Ogun West’s inability to produce a governor for Ogun State in almost 50 years since the state’s creation?
The inability stems from our disunity. For decades, we have been sabotaging each other, often unknowingly, allowing ourselves to be used by other senatorial districts to undermine our collective interest.

It’s time for Ogun West to come together as one voice and stop working against itself. Unity is the key to breaking this long-standing barrier.

How would you feel if Ogun State were to be divided before Ogun West gets the opportunity to produce a governor?

That scenario would be heartbreaking and a tragic injustice. It would mean the marginalization of Ogun West has reached its zenith. At a time when we are so close to achieving the governorship, state division would destroy our progress.

I pray that God prevents the realization of such divisive political tactics. Yewaland deserves its rightful place in Ogun State’s leadership.

What advice would you give to the Federal Government regarding state creation?

For fairness, the Federal Government should delay state creation until after the 2027 elections. This will allow Ogun West to achieve its long-overdue chance to occupy the governor’s seat.

The reason is that the other two senatorial districts, Ogun East and Ogun Central, have both had the opportunity to govern for two terms (8 years each), while Ogun West has never been given the chance. This is an outright injustice and inequality.

It’s high time the Federal government addressed this long-standing disparity in Ogun State’s political leadership, imbalance to ensure fairness and equity in the governance of Ogun State.

Dividing the state before then would not only further marginalize Ogun West further, but could also lead to administrative chaos. Disputes over boundaries and other adjustments might destabilize the region. The current structure should remain intact to ensure stability and justice for all.

Can you tell us a little about yourself?

Bola Femi Oniyide is a distinguished arbitrator and an active member of several social and political organizations in Nigeria and the UK, carrying forward a legacy of service and leadership.

I hail from Iga Ekerin, Ilaro-Yewa, Ogun State, as the son of the late Chief Solomon Abiodun Oniyide, a respected leader in his community.

My father served as Supervisor and Secretary of Egbado South Local Government under the tenure of the late Alhaji Adeniyi, after Senator (Chief) Mrs. Iyabo Anisulowo.

He held pivotal positions that shaped the community’s youth and spiritual landscape. As President of the Ilaro Youth Organisation (IYO), he succeeded the late Professor Afolabi Olabimtan and served in that capacity until his death.

My father was also President Emeritus of the Anglican Youth Fellowship. His contributions to Christ Church, Ilaro-Yewa, extended well beyond youth leadership.

Also, he served as Chairman of the Education Board of the Cathedral and Head of Stewards at Christ Church, Ilaro. These roles demonstrated his dedication to fostering education, spiritual growth, and his unwavering commitment to the church and its community.

Through my father’s remarkable achievements, I draw inspiration to continue serving as a mediator and advocate for social progress both locally and internationally.