As Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun’s tenure approaches its end, a critical assessment highlights dwindling influence, unfulfilled promises, and public disappointment, drawing on rich Yoruba proverbs to illustrate the transient nature of power

As Governor Dapo Abiodun’s nearly six-year tenure in Ogun State draws to a close, a growing sentiment suggests a significant shift in his political standing, marked by diminishing influence and public disillusionment.

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Observers and local analysts are increasingly referencing traditional Yoruba wisdom to underscore the transient nature of power, painting a picture of a leader whose “clock of exit is ticking.”

Drawing parallels with an old Yoruba adage about a king’s fading aura two years before his departure, sources indicate that Governor Abiodun’s current situation mirrors this decline.

Meetings are reportedly sparsely attended, political appointees are finding excuses for absence, and the once-prevalent “gratifications” have dwindled.

“When a leader starts reminding people, ‘I am still the Governor,’ it’s the clearest sign that power has slipped from his grasp,” an insider commented, reflecting the prevailing mood.

The Governor’s administration, which saw the appointment of over 3,000 individuals to various roles, is now facing scrutiny regarding the lasting impact of these positions beyond their “fleeting titles.”

When a leader starts reminding people, ‘I am still the Governor,’ it’s the clearest sign that power has slipped from his grasp.

There’s an open question about how many will genuinely feel his impact after his exit, with predictions that even once-loyal transport union leaders will swiftly shift allegiance to the incoming power.

The notion of Governor Abiodun handpicking a successor is largely dismissed, with historical examples like former Rivers State Governor Wike’s struggles with Fubara being cited.

Perhaps the most stinging criticisms revolve around perceived missed opportunities and alleged financial impropriety.

The recent National Sports Festival, hosted by Ogun State, is highlighted as a prime example. Despite the potential to showcase the state’s heritage, prominent tourist attractions like Olumo Rock were reportedly shut down.

Furthermore, allegations have surfaced regarding a “scandalous N2 billion budget for athlete feeding,” purportedly at N11,000 per meal, with claims that no local caterer secured the contract.

The abandonment of state-owned sports facilities in favour of private ventures is also being cited as a point of contention.

“The National Sports Festival was a missed opportunity to redeem public trust,” a local commentator remarked, lamenting what many see as a failure to leverage the event for the state’s benefit.

The prevailing sentiment, encapsulated by the Yoruba saying, “Bí Òyìnbó bá máa lọ ní’ilu, ó máa su sí àga ní”—”When the foreigner is about to leave the village, he defecates on the chief’s chair”—suggests a leader departing amid widespread disappointment and a verdict of “exile to irrelevance.”

Politicians are reportedly now avoiding the Governor, citing “cogent” excuses, while publicly pledging loyalty to the “Next Man.”

Governor Abiodun is increasingly viewed as “elésin àná”—yesterday’s horse—no longer wielding the same influence or utility.