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.
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.
As Senator Ned Nwoko positions for a return to the National Assembly, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Emmanuel Eboh, has described any opposing ambition as self- serving, unnecessary and detrimental to the peace and development of Delta North Senatorial District.
Speaking in an interview in Abuja, Chief Eboh, a former civil commissioner in Delta State, said Senator Nwoko continues to enjoy widespread goodwill and the support of the people of Delta North, popularly known as Anioma.
While acknowledging that political aspirations are legitimate in a democratic setting, Eboh cautioned against what he termed the “unacceptable drift towards turning politics into a family enterprise and a tool for power control and manipulation.”
He called on residents of Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency and the wider Delta North district to resist “the inordinate ambition of some Shylock politicians driven by selfish motives and unrestrained personal interests.”
The APC stalwart warned that personality-driven ambitions, rather than people-oriented leadership, could
lead to avoidable rivalry and division within Delta North.
Chief Eboh maintained that Senator Nwoko’s performance in office has been commendable and deserving of re-election, citing key interventions in rural road construction, electrification, education, potable water supply, and empowerment programmes.
He further highlighted the senator’s sustained advocacy for the recognition and identity of Anioma, noting that it was “unprecedented in the political history of the district”.
According to him, “Senator Nwoko has not only met expectations but surpassed them. He deserves re-election, particularly given the fact that the core constitutional responsibility of a senator is lawmaking for the good governance of the nation.”
Eboh said the people of Delta North regard Nwoko as a progressive leader who embodies unity and dignity across Anioma, stressing that he should not be distracted by unnecessary political contestation.
He reaffirmed that the senator’s commitment to the growth and development of Anioma remains unwavering and urged constituents to sustain their support for his return to the Senate.
The APC chieftain also called for continued backing of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Wike contractors Abuja project deadline warning as FCT minister insists on strict completion timelines ahead of President Tinubu’s anniversary projects(more…)
Trending News5 years ago
Others4 years ago
Humanity4 years ago
Others7 years ago
Business2 years ago
Business2 years ago