Politics, all over the world, is big news, powerful enough to shape and shift people’s perspectives along various fault lines. When you want to trigger hidden emotions, try politics and watch as they unravel. In politics, pretending for long is impossible; sooner or later, the cat will be let out of the bag, and everyone will see things clearly. As history has shown, decisions made through political choices come with consequences, and the effects spare no one — rich or poor, young or old, male or female.
Previously, I have written in this space about politics, emphasizing the importance of stepping up to meet the challenges of the day. In my earlier treatise, I asserted that the idea that politics is dirty, deadly, and dangerous has gained significant traction, particularly across Africa and much of the Global South. However, I also argued that politics, despite its reputation, can serve as a vehicle for the common good—as seen in advanced democracies. Unfortunately, the political system in our country today has failed to deliver. Hunger persists, and the poverty rate remains alarmingly high.
Politics, at its core, is the process of attaining power and elective offices — from the President to the Governor and legislatures across the three tiers of government. Unfortunately, for too long, we have handed over this system to charlatans, rascals, miscreants, and unscrupulous elements who prioritize personal gain while wreaking havoc on the nation. As a monopolistic structure, we have waited endlessly for the system to self-correct, but to no avail. Efforts to ensure that the system delivers on its mandate have met with only partial success in some states, leaving others languishing in the shambles of inept leadership.
Good governance, the hallmark of democracy, remains elusive in many states. Yet, amid the reasons for cynicism and skepticism, shining examples like Lagos and Oyo States inspire hope, build confidence, and assure citizens of a truly efficient system that serves the collective interest.
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In Oyo State, for instance, Governor Seyi Makinde has delivered on many of his campaign promises. He has repaired more roads than any of his predecessors. He has achieved more in human capacity development than any administration before him and has surpassed the combined records of his predecessors in critical areas of governance. Remarkably, he has done all of this without unnecessary noise or fanfare.
For example, while other states were merely announcing the implementation of the new minimum wage, Governor Makinde took it a step further by conducting a transparent recruitment exercise across ministries, departments, and agencies. Agencies that had not recruited in over 20 years were directed to open job portals. This fair and merit-based system ensured that beneficiaries felt valued and respected. In a country where most citizens believe securing government jobs requires political influence, Makinde’s leadership stands as a beacon of integrity and commitment to doing things the right way.
When we fix politics—rather than abandoning it due to the actions of a few misguided individuals—we can build a system that delivers the dividends of democracy to all, regardless of their background or location.
Amofin Beulah Adeoye exemplifies this type of leader. He is a structured and systems-oriented thinker, dedicated to designing sustainable models that empower citizens. His creativity, expertise, and artistry have been tested in solving multifaceted challenges both within and outside Nigeria. Tested and trusted, Amofin Beulah Adeoye brings to the table extensive experience across critical sectors of the economy, paired with the character and capacity to drive transformational change for the common good.
Hamzat Olajide writes about the prospects and potential of Oyo State, spotlighting Amofin Beulah Adeoye as a solution provider, a problem solver, and a creative, adaptive, and innovative leader with compassion and empathy.
