The political situation in Ogbomoso North is beginning to generate fresh conversations ahead of the coming election, particularly over the preparedness of the local government to deliver a strong electoral result for the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).
Hon. Jide Oketunbi, a former Federal Commissioner with the Public Complaints Commission, has raised question about the political calculations surrounding Ogbomoso North, stressing that political strength should not be measured by positions or influence alone, but by what can actually be delivered at the grassroots.
According to Oketunbi, there has been a noticeable wave of political defections and realignments towards APM in other towns and areas. However, such a level of movement has not been witnessed in Ogbomoso North.
While there is a stated ambition to deliver Ogbomoso North for APM, Oketunbi’s concern is whether the necessary grassroots groundwork is being done to make that ambition a reality.
He noted that some political leaders appear confident in their ability to deliver the local government, but cautioned that electoral victory is ultimately determined by the people and the strength of the political structure on the ground.
The former Federal Commissioner further observed that relying heavily on political influence from the state without adequately strengthening the local grassroots structure could become a major challenge when the election arrives.
For Oketunbi, silence should not be mistaken for weakness and political confidence should not be confused with electoral preparedness.
The situation remains fluid and there is still time for political realignments, mobilisation and further developments before the election.
But for now, his position is simple:
“Let’s wait and see.”
As the Yoruba saying goes:
“Ẹni tí ó ní tówù, òtẹ́rù ìwọ̀nba eyi tí yóò fi tánná lomu lọ́wọ́.”
Politics is ultimately about delivery. The true test of every political structure, every leader and every promise will come when the people have the final say at the ballot box.
Ogbomoso North is watching. The political season is unfolding. Let’s wait and see
