As Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun’s time in office dwindles, a sharp critique emerges, highlighting perceived missteps in governance, financial controversies, and a fading political influence

With Governor Dapo Abiodun’s tenure in Ogun State drawing to a close, a strong current of public and political sentiment suggests that his influence is rapidly diminishing.

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The impending end of his administration is being widely discussed through the lens of traditional Yoruba wisdom, particularly the poignant warning: “Wuruwuru, ọdún naa n pe e lọ”—”Gradually, the clock of exit is ticking.”

This ancient proverb, often used by the late, astute civil servant Matanmi, served as a quiet but firm rebuke to overzealous political appointees, reminding them that “the office will surely outlive the Clerk.”

Today, this timeless truth is being applied to Governor Abiodun’s situation, as his nearly six-year journey approaches its “final chapter.”

Observations from within the state’s political circles suggest a significant shift in power dynamics. Reports indicate that once-crucial meetings are now poorly attended, and a raft of “cogent excuses” are being offered by appointees to avoid engagement.

The usual “gratifications” associated with high office have reportedly dwindled, leading to a palpable sense that political attention is actively shifting towards the “Next Man.”

A stark indicator of this waning authority, according to some, is when a leader feels the need to remind the populace, “I am still the Governor”—a clear sign that true power may have already slipped away.

When a leader starts reminding people, ‘I am still the Governor,’ it’s the clearest sign that power has slipped from his grasp.

The Governor’s administration, which oversaw the appointment of over 3,000 individuals to various governmental roles, is now facing critical evaluation.

Questions are being raised about the long-term impact on the lives of these appointees beyond their “fleeting titles.”

Furthermore, the allegiance of key groups, such as transport union leaders, is anticipated to shift decisively to the new power structure.

The ambition of installing a successor is widely considered a pipe dream, with past examples like the near-debacle between former Rivers State Governor Wike and Fubara serving as cautionary tales.

A particularly contentious aspect of Governor Abiodun’s alleged legacy is the management of the recent National Sports Festival.

Despite the opportunity to showcase Ogun State’s rich cultural heritage, key attractions like Olumo Rock were reportedly shut down.

Moreover, significant controversy surrounds a “scandalous N2 billion budget for athlete feeding,” with claims of N11,000 per meal, and an alleged exclusion of local caterers from the contracts.

The perceived abandonment of state-owned sports facilities in favor of private ventures has further fuelled public discontent.

The sentiment among many is one of profound disappointment, encapsulated by the Yoruba adage, “Bí Òyìnbó bá máa lọ ní’ilu, ó máa su sí àga ní”—”When the foreigner is about to leave the village, he defecates on the chief’s chair.”

This proverb, used here to describe a departure marked by perceived disarray and a lack of consideration for the public, signals what some see as the “gods” delivering a verdict of “exile to irrelevance.”

Politicians are now reportedly avoiding the Governor like a “leper,” with their loyalty now openly pledged to the “Next Man.”

Governor Abiodun is increasingly being referred to as “elésin àná”—yesterday’s horse—a symbol of power that is no longer feared or useful. The collective gratitude of the people, it seems, is now being reserved for a fresh leadership.