I don’t usually do this, but when someone is doing something genuinely impressive, it’s only right to acknowledge it. Hon. Adebayo Adepoju, popularly known as Ibarapa Kan, is one politician who is changing the game in his constituency. Every time you see an update from his official Facebook page, you can almost bet it’s going to be something positive—employment opportunities, empowerment programs, or major developmental projects.
Here’s the interesting part: Hon. Anthony Adepoju is a first-time lawmaker, he’s not in the ruling party, he’s not a committee chairman, and he’s not a principal officer in the House. Yet, he has found a way to ensure that his people are feeling the impact of his position. That’s how you know someone who truly understands why he was elected.
I recently got to know through a friend that he has helped over 150 unemployed individuals secure federal jobs—yes, real, tangible jobs. We’re talking about placements in FIRS, EFCC, Teaching Hospitals, Federal Medical Centres, Navy and Army Officer Cadets, FRSC, Fire Service, the Police, university lecturing positions, and even the National Assembly Service Commission. Just recently, some of his constituents also secured jobs at NNPC. Now, that’s serious work.
But beyond employment, he’s also doing something quite innovative. His “One Day Representative” program brought over 100 students from his constituency to the National Assembly after a competitive educational examination. This kind of initiative is rare. It’s not just about exposure; it’s about inspiring young people to dream bigger and showing them that governance is not some distant concept meant for only a select few.
On infrastructure and road projects, there’s so much to mention. And honestly, I have to admit something—I supported Engr. Okanlawon in the last election. But seeing what Hon. Adepoju has been able to achieve, I can say he hasn’t disappointed the people who voted for him. He has stayed committed to the job and is delivering on his mandate.
This is exactly what leadership should be about—service, sacrifice, and commitment. We have seen this kind of dedication before with Hon. Abiodun Olasupo of Iseyin Federal Constituency, who served from 2015 to 2019 and left a lasting impact. Today, many of those he assisted back then are now in senior positions across various sectors. In the Senate, Distinguished Senator Buhari AbdulFatai Ph.D (BAF), has also remained focused and dedicated to excellence. No one is close to him in terms of performance and deliverables. He’s the best Senator in the SW. No one can argue this fact.
As we move toward 2027, politics should no longer be about blind party loyalty. It should be about performance and results. Who is actually working? Who is using their position to bring real development and opportunities to their people? We need to start looking beyond party lines and start holding our representatives accountable. Lawmakers are not just there to sit and debate laws—they can also use their influence to lobby for opportunities that will improve the lives of their constituents.
The truth is, there are countless opportunities in Abuja, but not everyone can pack up and move there. That’s why we need people in office who will go the extra mile to bring these opportunities closer to the people. Hon. Adepoju has shown that it is possible.
Now, let me be clear—I’m not a close ally of Dr. Anthony, but I believe in giving credit where it is due. His efforts, just like Hon. Adepoju’s, deserve to be recognized. When you perform well in any leadership position, people will speak well of you, and that naturally opens doors for even bigger roles in the future.
To the people of Ibarapa Kan, you made the right choice. Your representatives— Hon. Remi Oseni, and Dr. Anthony—are proving that good leadership is not about political parties but about the willingness to serve. The results are clear for everyone to see.
As for the rest of our leaders, let this be a wake-up call. Nigerians are watching, and when the time comes, the scorecard of achievements will speak louder than political slogans. It’s time to step up.
Popoola Hassan is an avid writer.
Kishi-Man
