OLA KING

It was Providence, the unchanging changer, that had transported him from relative obscurity to prominence. Before our eyes, he became the Governor of the Centre of Excellence to the chagrin of some and
admiration of some others. Between May 29, 2015 and midnight of May 28, 2019,Akinwunmi Ambode, a chartered accountant, held the reins of power in the state. While he held the position, many sought his listening ears for so many things.

Life couldn’t be any better. But the Epe, Lagos State- born technocrat turned politician allegedly stepped on some powerful toes that vowed with everything never to forgive him and they never did.

As his political party, All Progressive Party, APC failed to field him for re-election, the new governor, Babajide Sanwoolu was elected in
his stead.

The number of his friends and hangers-on has also dropped.

This was no more but a kill joy of sorts for him. His failure to secure his second term bid to govern the state forced him out of the
ornate Lagos State Government House, unceremoniously.

Sadly, a few days after he handed over power to Sanwolu, he has tasted the cold side of powerlessness. The attention he used to get unsolicited has dwindled.

All this was evidenced when he marked his birthday on June 14- the occasion was reportedly devoid of the usual fanfare.

“ None of those who used to swarm around him like bees to nectar deemed it fit to drop at least a word for him in any of the media, if
only to show him that they are still with him. This is a lesson that power indeed is transient,” a source said.

It will be recalled that in the past, he had been celebrated to high heavens on the Occasion of his birthday in newspapers, on radio and TV.