Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has mourned the passing away of an ex- rep member, the governor expressed this as sad and shocking the death of a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and immediate past chairman of the Oyo State Signage and Advertising Agency, Hon. Temilola Segun Adibi.

Hon. Adibi, a former chairman of Ogbomoso North Local Government, passed away at the early hours of Tuesday.

Governor Makinde expressed condolences to the family of the late politician and former Member of the House of Representatives, his political associates as well as the PDP in Ogbomosoland.
He said: “The news of the death of Hon. Temi Adibi came to me as a rude shock.
“I express my deepest condolences to his immediate family and political associates.
“Hon. Adibi was an exemplary politician, who put in his best efforts towards realising whatever he believed in.
“His absence will, no doubt, be felt in Ogbomoso politics.”
The governor prayed to God to grant repose to Adibi’s soul and grant his family the fortitude to bear the loss.

As a journalist with seven years of experience, I’ve always prioritized hard news reporting. Opinion pieces were never my forte, with fewer than ten articles under my belt. However, this year I’ve decided to challenge myself and explore the world of opinion writing. It’s time for me to share my perspectives and insights, and I’m excited to see where this new journey takes me as I’m writing one now.

I desire to make a meaningful impact on governance, either through direct involvement or indirect contributions. I envision myself playing a role in shaping policies, driving positive change, and serving the greater good.

What if I could advise Governor Seyi Makinde?

In this piece, I would be imagining I’m with Governor Makinde in the same room, either in his house or office sitted next to him and we are alone.

I would look into his eyes and tell him to stop all this Seyi for this Seyi for that in 2027.

I know there is gong to be a lot of pressure and temptation to prioritize your own ambitions. But i urge you, please don’t let the ‘Seyi for this, Seyi for that’ narrative take over.

Former Governor Abiola Ajimobi was called too greedy when he wanted that Senate seat from Oyo South. People were angry and voted against the best person for that seat based on people says.

When that parliament was later formed in 2019, the pressing issues of restructuring were at the forefront especially due to the herdsmen killings. That Senate really needed Ajimobi. He would have pushed positions that benefited the SW, he would have won some projects over to Oyo State and he would have formed massive influence in that Senate that would have progressed politics and constitutional democracy.

So, the idea now is, Governor Seyi Makinde, if you contest, you would be doing what we complained Ajimobi did. Double standards.

Your focus right now should be how the 33 LG chairmen will be allow to enjoy the their LG autonomy and ensure great projects are being done with the money so that the people of Oyo State see performance from the party at the grassroots level. This will make you remain in the good books of people and maintain your hold on politics.

You will be seen as performing when the LG chairmen perform even when you are not in office anymore.

Governor Seyi Makinde, you can relax and do some business, make more money and form a large political structure to include more people across Nigeria.

I supported Ajimobi in 2011, 2015, 2019. I’m a loyalist. I think if Governor Seyi Makinde runs for Senate, he will enter into squabbles in the Senate and gain more political enemies.

You will be stressed and frustrated by the frequent trips to and fro Abuja. You will lose your hold of Oyo State because the Senate will not make you a central figure any longer but now an opponent to many bigwigs inside and outside Oyo State.

You can lose everything if you run for the Senate. It’s a big gamble that if it ends in defeat will unravel you politically. Oyo will be taken from you because you won’t be around. When you are away, your enemies will have more time to scheme.

If I were to advise you, Governor Seyi Makinde on strategy. I will say calm down. Don’t contest. Let’s see what happens to the system in the next few years. Everything could even be caught up in revolt or uprising. After President Bola Ahmed Tinubu 8 years in office, the SW can present another person that allies with the Fulani/Hausa or the Igbo.

The next Presidential aspirants of Nigeria from SW must play the political strategy of either adopting an Igbo or Fulani or Hausa vice. The choice of either tribe determines the victory based on the mapping of that time.

I do not like to talk about elections in advance. I think we should first focus on governance. So, let Governor Seyi Makinde develop the state before we start making permutations of who would win the next elections.

I admire Governor Seyi Makinde, However, he needs to do some more visible work so that it can stand him out for further office.

If Governor Seyi Makinde decides to run for the Presidency, he has to show off a major project and he has done well with the Adamasingba stadium and also the attempt to make the Ibadan Airport an international airport.

Seyi Makinde was a nice man with a philanthropic heart before he assumed office in 2019, you can do more to look back and correct necessary things.

He has the interest of the masses at heart as seen in his insistence on Free education even when the revenues are needed.

Governor Makinde, you need to build and cement a legacy. You need to start the Presidential race from leaving a star studded Governorship so that there would be evidence that you can do more on a larger pedestal.

Olorun a fun yin se!

Gbenga Oyetola is a publisher of Oyomind.

He’s a gifted and skilled writer and advocate.

Phone +2348132974814
Email: adeoyeoluwagbemiga@gmail.com

The world has a lot of interests, but the notion of security, peace, and safety is unquestionably indispensable in the realm of those interests, – it is a dynamic concept that underpins the most foundation of human existence. It is a fundamental human aspiration, a yearning for a state of being that is free from fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. When we can boast of a secure, peaceful, and safe society, it means we are able to live our lives with dignity, pursue our passions with purpose, and cultivate meaningful relationships with others. My thoughts about this state of being is not merely a desirable outcome or long human aspirations, rather a necessary condition for human flourishing.

Securing a nation is a complex and endeavour that requires a multifaceted approach. It revolves around creating an environment in which individuals and communities can thrive, free from the threats of violence, exploitation, and oppression. This requires an equilibrium between protection
and empowerment, between safeguarding the well-being of citizens and supporting their autonomy and agency. It also demands a deep understanding of the many sensitive and intricate factors that contribute to insecurity, poverty, inequality, and social injustice.

Many scholars, experts, and authorities in the field have interrogated the concept of security, peace, and safety, and in respect to their submissions, I do believe they are not static states but dynamic
processes that require continuous effort and attention. They are the result of a collective endeavour, a shared commitment to creating a world in which all individuals can live with dignity and purpose. If we mostly prioritise security, peace, and safety, our nation can unlock a bountiful and prosperous
time ahead, with many opportunities and human flourishing. I don’t see this subject as merely a moral imperative but a pragmatic necessity.

During the week, we commemorate the Armed Forces Remembrance Day, and it is my deepest honour to join all Nigerians in paying tribute to our heroes on the front lines who have been making immense sacrifices to secure our nation. I honour the bravery, resilience, and patriotism of our armed forces,
who have been steadfast in their commitment to protecting our sovereignty and territorial integrity. I see their selflessness as the very best of humanity and we are all forever grateful for their courage and dedication. In all our reflections on the significance of the day, we must remind ourselves of the profound debt of gratitude we owe to our fallen heroes, who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

The sacrifices made by our gallant men and women in uniform are immeasurable, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that their efforts are not in vain. They have fought wars of insurgency, terrorism, and banditry, often in the most inhospitable and treacherous terrain. They have risked life and limb, endured prolonged periods of separation from loved ones, and suffered the emotional and psychological toll of witnessing unspeakable horrors. Their families, too, have borne the brunt of their absence, often living with the constant fear of losing their loved ones. We must not water down their efforts or take their sacrifices for granted. Rather, we must
continue to support and honour them, and recognise that their service is the very foundation upon which our nation’s security and prosperity are built. Nothing less.

There is an inextricable link between security and economic prosperity, and it cannot be overstated. A nation beset by insecurity and conflict is unlikely to attract investment, dream innovation, or promote economic growth. The devastating consequences of insecurity are evident in the ravaged economies of countries like Somalia, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, where decades of conflict have left deep scars. Conversely, nations that prioritise security and stability, such as Singapore and Rwanda, have been able to leverage their peaceful environments to drive economic growth and development. As Nigerians, we must recognise that our aspirations for economic prosperity, infrastructure development, and social progress are
impossible without a secure and peaceful environment, and we must support the authority and our men on the fronts in this sacred national responsibility.

It is imperative that we are more intentional about taking care of our security officers and men, who put their lives on the line daily to protect us. We must move beyond mere rhetoric and demonstrate our appreciation for their sacrifices through frank, serious and honest actions. This includes providing them with adequate resources, equipment, and training, as well as ensuring that they receive proper care and compensation for their services. We must recognise the emotional and psychological toll that their work take on them and their families, and provide them with the necessary support and counseling. Their thoughts must also be in our hearts at all times to show patriotism and love. If we do this, we demonstrate our devotion to their well-being and reinforce their motivation to continue serving our nation with distinction. We owe them that much and more.

I envision a beautiful future for Oyo State, where security remains the core that holds everything together. A secure state is the foundation upon which all other aspirations are built; economic prosperity, social development and human development. I am resolute in my commitment to ensuring that our state remains not just the Pace Setter, a home of peace and tranquility, – a home that allows every Oyo State citizens and its visitors to live without fear of violence or harm. And as we build secure and peaceful structures ourselves, we will also initiate a thriving economy that provides opportunities for all, creating a virtuous cycle of growth and development. To our brave armed forces men and women and their families, I offer my deepest gratitude for your sacrifices. We will never forget the debts. We owe you, and we will continue to honour the service and bravery in every way possible. Thank you all so much, and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Amofin Beulah Adeoye
Friday, January 17, 2025

Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde has reiterated the determination of his administration to ensure that every part of the state is safe and secure.

The governor gave this assurance in a statement issued on Thursday in commemoration of the first anniversary of the explosion that rocked Dejo Oyelese Close, Adeyi Avenue, Bodija area of Ibadan.
The governor, while praying for the repose of those who lost their lives in the incident, called on the citizens to join hands with the government in securing the state.

“As a government we are doing all we can to make the state safe. This is why we are investing so much in security architecture. But for these efforts to yield the desired results, we need the cooperation of the citizens; we need information from the citizens. That is why we say, ‘If you see something, say something and the authorities will do something about it.’

“The explosion of January 16, 2024 could have been prevented if those who saw those storing explosive devices in residential areas had informed our security operatives. That means the people that died did not have to die, the houses that were destroyed didn’t have to be destroyed and the disruption that we experienced didn’t have to happen.

“So, to prevent recurrence of such in any part of the state, let us all take the issue of security seriously and cooperate with security operatives by providing necessary information that will help them in discharging their duties of securing our lives.
“We pray for the repose of those who lost their lives in the incident and we pray that Almighty God will continue to strengthen their loved ones.

“As a government we have taken steps to prosecute those who caused this unfortunate incident. They are facing trial for terrorism and are currently being held in prison.
“The government will soon start the process of rebuilding the affected area as contracts have been awarded to fix all the roads in the axis.

“Similarly, we have inaugurated a relief disbursement committee, comprising residents of the affected area, and representatives of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ). The committee is to come up with a modality for the disbursement of the financial support the state government is providing for those who were affected by the explosion.”

To get things done on a massive and impressive scale, a whole of things revolve around leadership. From intentions, decisions to actions, a right leadership understand the stakes, mobilize and motivate people and lead from the front. In today’s fast paced world, leadership has evolved to be participatory in nature. For a fact, it is no longer sufficient for leaders to sit idly while their subordinates do the hard stuff. Stage by stage, brick by brick, step by step, the right leader moves with the people, set the pace, engages with them, build the process and identify with their worries and concerns.

Whether in politics or in the corporate world, a participatory leader stands a far better chance of changing the status quo, transforming the system and reinventing the wheel of societal progress. By grasping the reality of the modern time, its uniqueness and style, such a leader stays on the line while avoiding the dangers and risks often associated with leading in an unpredictable environment. By understanding the perils and pitfalls of leadership in an atmosphere fraught with mutual mistrust and distrust, such a leader not only redefine leadership but remodel the process and rework on both the expectations and reality. For Amofin Beulah Adeoye, leadership is more than service and sacrifice.

As a follower of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Amofin Adeoye believes in an evolutionary approach to leadership: a model that often trumps incremental step towards addressing a social and political phenomenon. Firmly and strongly, Amofin Adeoye opines that achievable and sustainable is only possible when people understand and voluntarily buy into various government programs backed by sound policy. He often cites examples of the free education policy implemented by the late sage as a test case particularly in transforming the entire western region into an intellectual landscape. On radio, he has expressed his admiration for the late Premier of the region and has even gone on to identify other prominent leaders on the global scale.

But the grandiose vision of a leader does not stop him/her from distractions and diversions and attacks by those who want to derail and disturb him. This writer noted, just last week that distraction can come in the form of outright invectives, outlandish falsehoods and fictitious fallacies. He added that through speculations, assumptions and rumors, distractions may ultimately serve the whims of the distractors. But he equally warned that an adaptive leader will know that when distractors go low, he and his team must exude confidence, radiate competence and demonstrate character by going higher and higher in all ramifications. In other words, when they go low, leaders on the other side of the spectrum must go high, as Michelle Obama once enthused. Aside distraction, diversion also played a significant role in derailing leaders from getting things done. By diverting or straying a leader from a course, less is done while more challenges piled up on his desk.

From his days as a student at the prestigious University of Ibadan to his time as a corporate legal luminary, Amofin Beulah Adeoye has learned the art of staying on course while cutting down the trees of distractions and diversions for the greater good of the people.

Olajide Hamzat writes about the various prospect and potential of Oyo state while projecting Amofin Beulah Adeoye as a solution provider, problem solver and creative, adaptive and innovative leader and thinker with compassion and empathy.

Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, on Wednesday, presented a brand new car to Major Rasaki Salawu (Rtd), the pioneer Director of Operations, Federal Road Safety Corps, (FRSC).
The car presentation was in recognition of the contribution of the retired military officer to the traffic management sector in the state in particular and the country as a whole.

The presentation formed part of the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration which took place at the Remembrance Arcade, Government House, Agodi, Ibadan.
While presenting the car, Governor Makinde said, “They told me about the difficulty that you have getting around because of the state of your vehicle.

“We thought that being a retired Major in the Nigerian Army, there cannot be a better time to also honour you than this day we are remembering our fallen heroes.
“So, on behalf of the Oyo State Government, I am presenting to you a brand new vehicle to move around easily. God bless you, Sir.”
In his response, Major Salawu expressed appreciation to Governor Makinde and the state for the gift.
He promised to continue to contribute his quota to improve the traffic management system in the state.