An integral part of “iwa” is, of course, loyalty to friends or values subscribed by the community. Oyo Deputy Governor, Barrister Abdul-Raheem Adebayo Lawal, is a study in loyalty. A man who has graciously gained the affection of his principal, Seyi Makinde, and most individuals who value progress and good things in the state.
One of the things that has made Barr. Lawal stand out among his peers in the country and make him one of the most popular Deputy Governors in Nigeria is the fact that he has clearly demonstrated to everyone that, even in a Deputy capacity, one must be completely loyal to the boss in order to be granted so many rights and privileges. And his principal, on many occasions, had reciprocated the loyalty.
Without mincing words, there is no Deputy Governor that has ever held the position of Ag. Governor in Oyo State’s history, and I doubt that it has ever happened in any other Nigerian state outside of situations involving life and death. Barrister Lawal made history becoming the first Deputy Governor in the state to be appointed in the acting capacity. A feat which may not be easily attained by anyone.
And despite not holding any previous political office, his principal, Governor Makinde has frequently served as an example of the true Koseleri in Nigerian politics and continues to be a model for everyone to study. When the Governor transmitted power to his Deputy in 2022 prior to the 2023 general elections, many were surprised and caught unaware. In fact, the APC members were completely in dilemma speculating that the Governor had only done so to garner support from people. Unknown to them that my Governor is a “Talk and Do” Governor.
However, upon the Governor’s return from vacation, he commended Lawal for his commitment, sense of responsibility and loyalty, as well as encouraged all political office holders to continue to contribute their own quota to the development of the state.
In his words: “Let me start by thanking you, especially for these short prayers to welcome me back to the Governor’s Office in Oyo State.
“I want to thank you for cooperating with the Acting Governor. One thing we have demonstrated in Oyo State is that we don’t have strong men but a strong team. “For over three weeks, the people of Oyo State did not feel my absence or any gap. Everything that has to do with governance went on seamlessly.
“So, I want to thank the Deputy Governor for your commitment, responsibilities and loyalty. We should have been doing this from the beginning, but it is better late than never.
“So, I thank you and look forward to us working closely together in this tenure and working hard again together in the next tenure. “One revelation from all of these is, I never went on holiday for three years, but in the next administration, it will be a yearly thing.”
The Governor just proved it again this time, despite the fact that there won’t be another general election anytime soon. Governor Makinde has shown that loyalty itself is the best reward.
It is an open truth that Barr. Lawal is an enigma, a dependable ally, and a usually simple and straightforward person who is no doubt one of the finest brain in the good book of Governor Makinde. This is among the qualities that have made him eligible to receive the title of “Most Outstanding Friend of Ibadan” (MOFI), which is given in recognition of his outstanding performance, sterling leadership, uncommon dedication, and significant contributions to the advancement of the CCII and Ibadanland.
According to CCII, the award was given to the Deputy Governor after careful consideration and evaluation of his excellent, results-driven leadership and in appreciation of his enormous contributions in promoting and advancing the course of Ibadanland even before he assumed the office of Deputy Governor.
“Whereas most heroes in Nigeria are usually celebrated after their demise, we, in Ibadan have decided to celebrate you now so as to show you that Ibadan has created a deserved permanent place for you in her history. You are most deserving of this honour by virtue of your unrelentless and selfless service to the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCIl) and Ibadandanland.
“This unique patriotic gestures of yours will remain indelible in our minds till eternity as they show that someone like you will surely do more for Ibadanland as God continue to bless your endeavours,”
To me, this call for double celebrations. I am proudly super proud that I am being mentored by a man of inestimable value. And I thank you and Her Excellency, Chief Ajibola Lawal, for being a wonderful parent to us. We will forever be grateful.
Congratulations!
Oyedeji Ahmed writes
(LMP)
S.A Public Affairs
