By Babs Oyetoro
Representative democracy rests on the tripod of justice, equity, and inclusivity. Without these, the system risks degenerating into a breeding ground for disaffection, schism, and stunted development.
Sadly, as Ogun State approaches another crucial electoral cycle in 2027, there are disturbing signs of an orchestrated attempt to sideline the Yewa/Awori bloc of Ogun West from the governorship race.
This deliberate exclusion, if allowed to stand, will amount to a brazen travesty of democratic principles.
Since Ogun State was created in February 1976, the people of Ogun West have never produced a governor.
Ogun East has had three—Chief Olabisi Onabanjo, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, and the incumbent, Prince Dapo Abiodun.
Ogun Central has also had its fair share with Chief Olusegun Osoba and Senator Ibikunle Amosun. Forty-nine years after its creation, only Ogun West remains conspicuously absent in the power equation.
Against this glaring imbalance, some elements within the political establishment have embarked on a calculated campaign of calumny, portraying Yewa/Awori as disorganised, unprepared, or incapable of producing a governor.
They have also attempted to inject religion into the political discourse, a dangerous distraction aimed at sowing division and justifying another round of injustice.
But the truth remains unshakable: the loudest consensus across Ogun’s three senatorial zones today is that it is time for Ogun West to lead.
Attempts to manipulate succession politics through narratives of disunity or religious sentiment are puerile and hypocritical. Such arguments collapse under the weight of reason and fairness.
They also insult the collective intelligence of Ogun citizens who have become increasingly aware of their right to equity in governance.
Indeed, the Lagos model of succession politics provides a clear path. Development in Lagos was never anchored on where a leader came from or their religious identity.
From Lateef Jakande to Bola Tinubu, Babatunde Fashola, Akinwunmi Ambode, and Babajide Sanwo-Olu, succession was guided by competence, capacity, and continuity of vision.
The result is evident: Lagos today is Africa’s fifth-largest economy, a sub-national richer than many African countries.
If Lagos could rise above divisive sentiments to prioritise progress, Ogun has no excuse.
To persist in marginalising Ogun West in 2027 would not only be unjust but would also undermine the state’s stability and economic trajectory.
Governor Dapo Abiodun has, without doubt, raised the bar of governance with impactful projects that have opened Ogun’s economy to investors and delivered tangible dividends to the people.
However, history will not only judge him by his accomplishments in office but also by how he manages succession.
Ensuring that his successor comes from Ogun West, backed by competence and vision, is the only way to preserve his legacy and strengthen unity.
Among the array of gladiators eyeing the governorship, Senator Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, has emerged as the most formidable candidate from Ogun West.
Unlike others who rely on rhetoric, Adeola has built a reputation for performance.
In just two years, he has executed over 400 projects across Ogun West and facilitated another 90 recently commissioned.
His “Light-Up Ogun State” initiative stands as a signature intervention, delivering transformers and solar-powered streetlights to communities across 17 local governments.
These include Yewa North, Ado-Odo/Ota, Yewa South, Ifo, Abeokuta North and South, Odogbolu, Sagamu, Ijebu Ode, and beyond. For many rural communities left in darkness for decades, Adeola’s projects have brought life, safety, and economic vibrancy.
Beyond infrastructure, his interventions span education, health, technology, and youth empowerment—impacting students, professionals, and rural dwellers alike.
He has redefined political representation, demonstrating that public office can be a tool for tangible transformation rather than patronage.
Despite mudslinging and orchestrated opposition, Yayi has remained undeterred, focusing on service delivery and the broader vision of uplifting Ogun West. His resilience mirrors the spirit of his people—long marginalised yet unbowed.
His growing popularity across Ogun’s three senatorial districts has made him not just a candidate for Ogun West but a symbol of equity for the entire state.
As 2027 approaches, the choice before Ogun is stark. To deny Ogun West yet again would not only deepen historic injustice but also fracture the fragile unity that has held the state together.
On the other hand, embracing equity by allowing Yewa/Awori their rightful turn will strengthen inclusivity, enhance peace, and foster sustainable development.
Every generation faces defining moments. For Ogun, 2027 is one such moment.
The political class must rise above narrow interests and uphold the principles of fairness and justice.
The people are watching, and the will of the people cannot be perpetually suppressed.
To exclude Ogun West again will not only be politically reckless but also a stain on the conscience of those who allow it.
Senator Adeola’s record has shown that Ogun West does not lack capacity or vision. What it has lacked is opportunity.
Now is the time to correct history’s imbalance. Anything less would be a travesty that future generations will neither forget nor forgive.
