Sola Ajisafe, Esq
To many, the most surprising story of the week was the resignation of two committed young men who had used their intellect, resources, and influence to support Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s political fortunes. As the saying goes, “the pen is mightier than the sword”, a timeless truth that’s toppled empires and made mighty men fall without lifting a finger. Nigeria’s independence was achieved through the pen, not guns. The state of Aketi’s government in his last days and after his death can be traced to the efforts of these young men in making Lucky a governor which is a story for another time.
During the making of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa popularly called Mabaja, Sunday Abire was an irrepressible voice who did everything possible to undermine the Akeredolu government. He wasn’t new to this; he had been a vocal supporter and image maker for Hon. Ade Adeogun, former Member of the House of Representatives for Akoko South West/South East Federal Constituency. Abire’s mastery of language is unmatched – he wields words like a tailor, crafts statements like an iron smith, and his insights are as deep and professional as a spider’s web. His voice against Akeredolu was deep and penetrating, rooted in a philosophy of polemics.
Ilesanmi Gbamila, on the other hand, made his mark through Coastal Renaissance publications. If anyone “injured” the Aketi government and kept it on its toes, it was Gbamila. His role in promoting Aiyedatiwa was unmatched by other media platforms dedicated to keeping “Aketi down while Lucky rose”. Those of us on the other side felt the impact of his crusade. Every whisper in Aketi’s corridors or between Lucky and his inner circle would surface on Coastal Renaissance the next day, woven into a narrative to pressure Aketians. He was the head of the propaganda machinery, and he did a good job.
These two young men were appointed into government to continue their good work but were given space without tools to perform. The environment was too small, unaccommodating, and they were stuck in a cul-de-sac, unable to showcase their talents. Their capacity to perform was limited by their surroundings. Despite being close to the Chief Press Secretary, when the government came onboard, thanks to the Chief Press Secretary’s latitude.
The loss of these young men is a symptom of the government’s lack of quality and motivation. Arogunmasa’s (Abire) reasons for his departure are a deeper betrayal, especially considering how he has been catapulted to prominence through his good work. Abire was planted and flourished under Adeogun; he will bloom under the new canopy. Gbamila’s roots run deep, I know this as of a fact. He will grow higher, and his godfather will find him a new lease, even if not in OSOPADEC.
To these young men who served with honour and pride, I bid them well. May you find more honour and fortune in your new endeavours. For those yet to take the leap, don’t delay it’s dangerous. Act now before it’s too late.
Sola Ajisafe writes from Ikanmu Oka Akoko in Ondo State
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