A Call To Conscience For Ogun State And Governor Dapo Abiodun…

BY MICHAEL AKINOLA

Governor Dapo Abiodun is confronted with a defining moment that goes beyond politics and speaks directly to leadership, conscience, and respect for the will of the people. Ogun State has reached a point where it must decide whether its revered traditional institutions will reflect progress, intellect, and popular consensus or be reduced to instruments of political convenience.

Delta State recently demonstrated what is possible when courage and foresight guide decision making. The emergence of the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, a young, cerebral and globally exposed monarch, sent a strong message across the country. It showed that tradition and modern leadership can coexist when the right choice is made.

Ogun State itself has a powerful precedent.

The late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, ascended the throne at a relatively young age. His reign became one of the most impactful in Yoruba history because he brought intellect, courage, independence, and a deep commitment to his people. His age at ascension did not weaken the throne. It strengthened it.

Today, Ogun State faces a similar moment of reckoning.

There are growing concerns and feelers from within the public space that political elements are attempting to influence the process by pushing a particular aspirant, a certain Kuye, largely on the basis of political connections rather than popular acceptance or merit. Even more troubling are reports that this individual has been telling people openly that Governor Dapo Abiodun has already chosen him. Such claims, whether true or not, are dangerous.

They undermine the sanctity of the traditional institution and create the impression that the process has been compromised. Kingship should never be portrayed as a political reward or an appointment determined by proximity to power. When such narratives are allowed to spread without correction, public trust suffers and the institution itself is diminished.

Governor Dapo Abiodun understands the danger of imposition better than most. His own political journey is evidence of that. When political forces attempted to block his aspiration to govern Ogun State, he refused to step aside. He trusted the people, stood his ground, and was ultimately vindicated.
That same respect for popular will is required now.