Forget the party squabbles, Southwest leaders! Afenifere, the respected pan-Yoruba socio-political group, is sounding the alarm. They’re calling on all politicians, especially those from the Southwest region, to stop the endless competition based on party affiliation. Instead, they urge leaders to be judged by their actual performance, the real impact they have on people’s lives, and the services they deliver. This is a wake-up call to focus on what truly matters: good governance and development for everyone.
Here’s a quick rundown of the key takeaways from this important dialogue:
- Focus on Performance, Not Party: Leaders should compete on who builds more schools and creates jobs, not just on party labels.
- Ministers as Protectors: Southwest ministers at the national level must represent the region’s interests fiercely.
- Governors: Collaborate! Share successes and learn from each other for regional growth.
- Youth: Reject Division! Embrace unity, cooperation, and innovation for a brighter future.
- Leaders Must Deliver: True leadership is measured by tangible results and service to the people.
The Call to Action: Beyond Party Lines
Pa Reuben Fasoranti, the venerable leader of Afenifere, made a powerful statement this past Wednesday. Speaking at a crucial two-day Southwest Stakeholders Dialogue in Akure, Ondo State, he emphasized that it’s high time for ministers and political bigwigs from the region to rise above blind party loyalty. He stressed that their true measure should be their ability to secure and distribute federal projects and resources equitably across the Southwest.
Senator Femi Okurounmu, a former Secretary-General of Afenifere, delivered Fasoranti’s message, highlighting that these ministers are not just party members; they are the guardians of the Southwest’s dreams and aspirations. “Our ministers must never forget that they are not just cabinet officials; they are voices of a people whose aspirations must be fiercely defended,” Okurounmu stated, echoing Fasoranti’s sentiments. He urged them to work hand-in-hand with governors, no matter their political party, to ensure the region gets its fair share of development.
Governors, Let’s Build Together!
The call didn’t stop at ministers. Governors from the Southwest were also charged to foster a spirit of inter-state collaboration. The idea is simple but powerful: build on each other’s successes to drive regional prosperity. “When Osun innovates successfully, let Oyo adopt and adapt. When Lagos leads, let others follow. When Ondo discovers a solution, let it become the Southwest’s solution,” was the advice given. This kind of synergy can really accelerate development across the entire region.
A New Era for the Youth and Future Generations
The elder statesman also had a message for the younger generation. He implored them to turn their backs on divisive politics and embrace unity, cooperation, and forward-thinking innovation. Fasoranti reminded everyone that the Yoruba legacy of welfarism is something precious that must be kept alive through inclusive governance and by empowering people economically. It’s all about creating a society where everyone has a chance to thrive.
Measurable Impact is Key
“Stop competing over party labels,” Fasoranti declared passionately. “Start competing over who has built more schools, created more jobs, and provided better healthcare. That is the politics that serves our people.” This is a fundamental shift in perspective, moving the focus from political theatre to concrete, positive changes in the lives of ordinary citizens.
Leaders Show Their Support
The message resonated deeply. Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who chairs the Southwest Governors’ Forum, wholeheartedly agreed. He stressed that the Southwest must reclaim its position as a leader in innovation, education, and good governance. “The Southwest cannot afford fragmentation,” Sanwo-Olu stated. “We must build a shared vision that uplifts all our states. Our strength lies in collaboration, not competition.” He also gave a nod to President Bola Tinubu’s reforms, noting that they’re helping to rebuild confidence among investors, and voiced his support for the proposed Southwest Development Commission, which aims to boost regional growth.
Governors Weigh In
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, represented by his deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, added that democracy flourishes when everyone is included and leaders are held accountable. He called for more women and youth to be involved in decision-making processes and reaffirmed Ogun State’s backing for President Tinubu’s reform agenda, even beyond 2027.
The host Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, saw the dialogue as a significant step in improving how citizens and the government interact. “By engaging with us, the Federal Government shows that democracy matures when the centre listens to the regions,” Aiyedatiwa remarked. “Let us chart a future where the Southwest remains a beacon of progress and Nigeria fulfils her promise to all citizens.”
Traditional Rulers and Elders Back the Initiative
Respected traditional rulers, including the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, and the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye, also joined the chorus, advocating for unity, ethical leadership, and increased investment in youth development, agriculture, and vital infrastructure. Chief Bisi Akande, a former Osun State Governor and a prominent APC figure, commended President Tinubu for his bold economic reforms. However, he also urged for the strengthening of true federalism, ethical governance, and the implementation of development projects that show measurable results. “Development must be measured by impact, not promises,” Akande insisted, encouraging the DAWN Commission to speed up joint infrastructure projects that can bolster the region’s economy.
Who Was There?
The regional dialogue, aptly themed “Strengthening Democracy Through Dialogue: Assessing Progress, Charting the Future,” brought together a powerful mix of stakeholders. We saw ministers, governors, lawmakers, traditional leaders, and civil society advocates all in one room. Key attendees included:
| Category | Notable Figures |
|---|---|
| Governors | Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Ademola Adeleke (Osun, represented by Deputy Gov. Kola Adewusi), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun, represented by Deputy Gov. Noimot Salako-Oyedele), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti, represented by SSG Prof. Habibat Adubiaro), Seyi Makinde (Oyo, represented by Deputy Gov. Mr Bayo Lawal), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo, Deputy Gov. Olaide Adelami present) |
| Ministers | Wale Edu (Finance), Adebayo Adelabu (Power), Dr Iziaq Salako (State for Health), Adegboyega Oyetola (Marine and Blue Economy) |
| Traditional Rulers | Alafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade; Olowo of Owo & Chairman, Council of Obas, Ondo State, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye; Deji of Akure Kingdom, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi; Alake and paramount ruler of Egbaland, HRM Oba Michael Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo |
| Former Governors | Olusegun Mimiko (Osun) |
| Political Chieftains | Chief Bisi Akande (APC) |
This gathering clearly shows a united front pushing for a new direction in Southwest politics, one that prioritizes service and progress above all else. It’s a testament to the power of dialogue and collaboration in shaping a better future for the region.
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