As Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun’s current term progresses, the political landscape is shifting, marked by declining influence and mounting public scrutiny over governance and legacy, echoing traditional Yoruba warnings about the fleeting nature of power
Governor Dapo Abiodun’s tenure in Ogun State is increasingly under public and political microscope as its conclusion draws nearer, with observations suggesting a decline in his political sway.
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The mood in the state, often reflected through poignant Yoruba proverbs, indicates that “the clock of exit is ticking” for the current administration.
A veteran civil servant, known for his wisdom, once cautioned political newcomers with the phrase, “Wuruwuru, ọdún naa n pe e lọ”—”Gradually, the clock of exit is ticking.”
This ancient wisdom, which posits that “the office will surely outlive the clerk,” now seems to resonate deeply with the current political climate surrounding Governor Abiodun.
Reports suggest a noticeable shift in dynamics. Meetings once bustling are now sparsely attended, and excuses from political appointees are becoming more frequent.
The “gratifications” that once flowed freely have reportedly dwindled, leading to a palpable sense that attention is shifting towards “the next person.”
When a leader starts reminding people, ‘I am still the Governor,’ it’s the clearest sign that power has slipped from his grasp.
A telling sign, according to political observers, is when a leader begins to assert, “I am still the Governor,” which is often interpreted as a clear indication that power has begun to slip.
The administration’s legacy is also under intense scrutiny. With over 3,000 appointments made during his tenure, questions are being raised about whether these individuals’ lives were genuinely improved beyond their temporary titles.
The notion of the Governor handpicking a successor is met with skepticism, with historical precedents cited as reminders of the challenges such ambitions often face.
Recent events, particularly the handling of the National Sports Festival, have drawn sharp criticism. Concerns include the alleged closure of Olumo Rock, a key tourist site, during the festival, and the failure to promote other cultural landmarks.
Furthermore, a substantial N2 billion budget allocated for athlete feeding, reportedly at N11,000 per meal, has sparked controversy, especially as local caterers reportedly missed out on contracts.
The alleged neglect of state-owned sports facilities in favor of private ventures has also fueled public dissatisfaction.
The prevailing sentiment is that Governor Abiodun’s time in office is winding down amidst public disappointment.
As another Yoruba proverb suggests, “Bí Òyìnbó bá máa lọ ní’ilu, ó máa su sí àga ní”—”When the foreigner is about to leave the village, he defecates on the chief’s chair”—implying a departure marked by disarray and resentment.
The current political landscape sees politicians increasingly distancing themselves, with loyalty now shifting towards the “Next Man.”
Governor Abiodun is now described as “elésin àná”—yesterday’s horse—a figure no longer feared or deemed useful. The collective gratitude of the people, it appears, is now being reserved for a new era of leadership.
