FRIDAY EVENING WITH AMOFIN BEULAH ADEOYE (XXII)

Let’s take a step back and reflect on the fundamental conventions that define human and national greatness. It is undeniable that the values of process, equanimity, and justice are essential components of a prosperous and harmonious society.

The ability of a nation to uphold these principles is a hallmark of its greatness. We must prioritize these eternal truths in our noble pursuit of development. This entails cultivating an atmosphere that fosters transparency, accountability, and inclusivity, where every citizen has a voice and is treated with dignity.

Time and experience have shown the complexities of human nature. It is inherent in humans to resist change and grow defensive toward unfamiliar concepts, particularly when they pertain to reforms and policies that affect large populations.

However, upon closer inspection, these changes often aim to serve the collective good. We must acknowledge this inherent resistance and strive to educate and enlighten ourselves and others on the benefits of progressive, adaptive, and incremental change. Change is an inevitable aspect of growth and development. Embracing it requires a willingness to challenge assumptions, question biases, and remain open to new ideas and perspectives. This mindset is crucial for building a society that is resilient, innovative, and forward-thinking.

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The governance and development trajectory of Oyo State has sometimes been hindered by responses stemming from a lack of understanding of policies and their intended outcomes. The government’s intentions may be genuine, and policies designed to benefit the people. Nevertheless, the government must guide the people in understanding their vision and objectives. This is one of the cornerstones of democracy—an informed and engaged citizenry. Effective communication is key to building trust and ensuring citizen engagement. It enables opportunities for the people to participate in the democratic process, hold leaders accountable, and contribute to community development. Therefore, it is sacrosanct that the government prioritizes transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement in its governance framework.

My personal and governance philosophy is rooted in the belief that regular communication and feedback are essential components of effective leadership. The people must be informed about government actions and decisions and must be given a platform to contribute to the vision for prosperity and influence. This can be achieved through policy communication, press briefings, question-and-answer series, and other mechanisms that facilitate dialogue between the government and the people. Leadership is not about imposing one’s will on others but about supporting citizens to take ownership of their destiny. A true leader must be willing to listen, learn, and adapt to the needs and aspirations of the people.

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New opportunities are emerging globally, and people’s perceptions of government are shifting. In Oyo State, the people have been fortunate to have quality representation and consistent feedback in recent years. I intend to build upon this foundation, elevate it to new heights, and ensure that the people remain central to our governance philosophy. This requires commitment to innovation, creativity, and continuous learning. We must be willing to experiment with new approaches, leverage technology, and collaborate with civil societies, the private sector, and other stakeholders to drive development and improve the lives of our citizens.

Personally, I believe in the importance of transparency and accountability. My professional life and history are open books. I will ensure that the people are constantly informed about our actions and decisions. Regular communication and updates will be central to our administration. This is not only a matter of principle but a necessary condition for effective governance. Accountability is a two-way street; leaders must be accountable to the people, and citizens must also hold themselves accountable for their actions and contributions to community development. We must embrace mutual accountability to achieve justice, equity, and prosperity for everyone.

Governance is a marathon, not a sprint—it is characterized by a continuous process of iterative improvements and adjustments. It requires a deep understanding of human and societal complexities and a willingness to adapt and evolve in response to emerging challenges and opportunities. Individuals, including myself, seeking political office to lead and govern must acknowledge this dynamic process and possess a profound vision for the society they seek to shape. This vision must be guided by justice, equanimity, and transparency, informed by an understanding of the sensitive relationships between individuals, communities, and institutions.

~ Amofin Beulah Adeoye
Friday, February 7, 2025