As Nigeria’s 2027 general elections approach, various interest groups across different states are preparing to put their best foot forward, especially in states where incumbent governors will have completed their two-term tenure.
Oyo State is one of such states where the baton must be passed from a governor who has performed exceptionally well to a worthy successor.
Finding an individual capable of filling such big shoes would have been a Herculean task had Governor Seyi Makinde not deliberately prepared his men for leadership.
While taking on the mandate to propel Oyo into the future with solid and massive developmental strides; which he has successfully done, Makinde identified and nurtured individuals of strong intellect, character, and distinctive leadership qualities. These men have since taken up leadership roles across different tiers of government. In other words, Makinde has already groomed his successor.
Among these individuals, and undeniably the frontrunner, is Honorable Dhikrullahi Adedeji Stanley Olajide, fondly called OdidiOmo.
For months, the media space has been abuzz with his name, as groups, communities, and individual citizens intensify calls for him to run for governor.
The latest of such endorsements for the hardworking Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Digital Information, Communication Technology, and Cyber Security, comes from a political analyst, writer, and digital creator, Adewale Afolabi.
Afolabi asserts that OdidiOmo has surpassed all expectations, becoming the bedrock of politics in his constituency, Ibadan South-West/North-West.
He believes that OdidiOmo is well-positioned to take the baton from Makinde and lead Oyo to greater democratic triumphs.
His recent post on Facebook sheds light on this perspective:
Adewale Afolabi’s Facebook Post:
*”I love political crusades and detest political campaigns; one is ‘frankful,’ and the other is ‘prankful’! So, I promise to stick to crusades and not campaigns in the following assertion!
Today’s politics has outgrown pranks – thanks to increased public awareness. It has moved beyond treachery – thanks to the general treasure of knowledge that people now possess! To that extent, anyone elected or appointed to any level of government and found wanting should be court-martialed for murdering democracy and thrown into the abyss of political history’s dump site!
However, anyone who follows GSM’s leadership initiative should be recognized and considered for higher responsibilities!
Following this initiative, I present to you a man (among the catalogue of aspirants) who not only wears the cap but is also fit for the race, Dhikrullahi Stanley Adedeji Olajide. A man of immense achievements and accomplishments in politics and leadership!
But for him, most politicians in his Federal Constituency (SW-NW), including elders and leaders, would have thrown in the towel, bidding farewell to politics; the game they know best and one that has been grafted into their lives.
Honestly, without exaggeration, OdidiOmo’s debut in politics and leadership has exceeded my expectations, especially as a new breed. Without being heretical, he, like GSM, is our savior – one man powerful enough to address our wants and resourceful enough to redress our needs. He is always there for us, come rain or shine!
Now I understand why GSM insisted that he and his counterparts should seek re-election in 2023; simply to consolidate collective intelligence in governance beyond its previous levels!
In my opinion, OdidiOmo should be considered for the governorship race, and I am confident that a trial will not only convince us but will also lead to the triumph of democracy in Oyo State!
I come in peace!
Jazakallahu Khairan!
Barakallahu Fihi!”
