As political conversations gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 governorship race in Ogun State, the question of equity and rotational justice has once again taken center stage.
In a strongly worded but measured response to remarks attributed to Iyabo Obasanjo, a former Senator, Nafiu O. Abimbola, speaking on behalf of the Ogun West Emancipation Movement, has asserted that the people of Ogun West are not seeking sympathy but demanding fairness.
Abimbola said his response was driven not by emotion but by “responsibility to defend the dignity, intelligence, and political maturity of the people of Ogun West.”
“We Are Not Crying”
Reacting to comments reportedly suggesting that Ogun West’s agitation amounts to a “cry” that has been heard, Abimbola described such language as condescending and dismissive of a legitimate aspiration.
“The expression ‘we have heard their cry’ suggests that Ogun West is pleading for charity,” he stated. “But Ogun West is not crying for sympathy. Ogun West is asserting a principled and long-standing demand rooted in equity.”
Since the creation of Ogun State in 1976, Ogun West remains the only senatorial district yet to produce a governor — a reality that has increasingly shaped political discourse in the state.
For advocates of the Ogun West cause, the argument is simple: justice delayed should not become justice denied.
Capacity, Not Charity
Abimbola also took issue with suggestions that Ogun West would need external “organization” or political engineering before it could produce credible leadership.
“Ogun West is not an orphan seeking guardianship,” he declared. “It is blessed with seasoned politicians, technocrats, entrepreneurs, and accomplished professionals capable of mobilizing and leading themselves.”
He stressed that leadership cannot be manufactured through benevolence but must emerge from competence, character, credibility, and the confidence of the electorate.
“The fact that Ogun West has not produced a Governor is not evidence of incapacity. It reflects political dynamics over time,” he said. “Equity is not charity. Justice is not a favor to be deferred.”
Defending Ogun West Leaders
Abimbola further defended prominent political figures from the district, insisting that they deserve respect in the ongoing conversation.
He specifically referenced Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, who currently represents Ogun West at the National Assembly. According to Abimbola, the senator has demonstrated legislative competence and visible constituency impact.
“Political aspirations are open to debate,” he noted, “but dismissing the standing of a serving Senator does not strengthen democratic engagement.”
He also cited respected leaders such as Gboyega Nasir Isiaka and Abiodun Isiaq Akinlade, describing them as credible and well-established political actors whose records of service and grassroots structures speak for themselves.
“These are not men who need to be built or validated by external intervention,” he said. “They are products of experience, investment, and commitment to public service.”
A Question of Principle
While reaffirming his loyalty to his political party and commitment to unity, Abimbola warned against mistaking peace for passivity.
“I believe in dialogue and disciplined engagement,” he said. “However, unity must never be built on the subtle diminishment of others.”
He added that supporting Ogun West’s governorship ambition only after securing personal political victories misses the broader principle at stake.
“The issue is not about future promises tied to individual ambitions. It is about fairness in this generation,” he stated.
The Road to 2027
As permutations intensify ahead of the 2027 elections, the debate over zoning and equitable power rotation is expected to shape political alignments across Ogun State.
For the Ogun West Emancipation Movement and its supporters, the message is clear and unambiguous:
“Ogun West does not seek sympathy. Ogun West seeks equity. We are ready. We are capable. And we shall continue to advocate respectfully, confidently, and firmly for a Governor of Ogun West extraction.”
With that declaration, the 2027 conversation in Ogun appears not only underway — but firmly defined by the language of justice rather than charity.
