13th August, 2026
By Bola Agboola
For the first time in twelve years, Osun is poised for a gubernatorial election, and I will not be present to witness the process in person – neither as a reporter, a party sympathizer, nor an observer.
The rationale is clear: a pervasive fear of the unknown.
The disturbing reports of violence, fatalities, and maiming that have emerged from Osun over the past few months would indeed compel any Nigerian to reconsider visiting the state for the election.
As of Tuesday, merely three days before the election, The Guardian reported that over 29 lives had already been tragically lost to election-related violence in Osun State. This starkly illustrates the tragic lengths to which the thirst for power can drive individuals, even those who are supposed to be brothers or kinsmen.
The unseen actors orchestrating these events, if questioned, would undoubtedly profess their actions stem from an ardent passion for Osun, convinced they possess the capacity to make Osun State a better place.
I meditate that the unsettling events in Osun would truly make the people of Ekiti appreciate the formula employed by their Governor, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, to secure a second term so seamlessly.
The very gubernatorial position that has claimed 29 lives in Osun was contended in Ekiti without a single casualty. Ought this 'BAO Model' not to be meticulously studied and widely emulated?
Does this not unequivocally point to the urgent need to re-evaluate and redirect the political system we operate in Nigeria?
Can we not diverge from the 'winner-takes-all' brand of politics that currently dominates our landscape?
Had BAO not demonstrated such profound humility, had he not meticulously engaged and fostered a sense of belonging among the majority of Ekiti's power-brokers, it is conceivable that Ekiti might have witnessed a similar, if not greater, number of fatalities during its June election.
This, I contend, is the essence of the BAO Model: a politics characterized by inclusion, by genuinely engaging stakeholders, by profound humility, and by a commitment to contributive development.
If our collective aspiration is indeed the holistic development of our local governments, states, and the nation as a whole, then there is no conceivable reason why this model should not be nationally if not universally embraced.
The BAO Model of politics is precisely what I would advocate for every governor during their inaugural term. Just that pride, regrettably will preclude many from adhering to this principle.
The BAO Model stands as a compelling reminder that a superior approach to political engagement exists—one that cultivates unity and progress, rather than sowing division and violence. It is a paradigm worthy of meticulous study and widespread emulation for the collective welfare of all citizens.
I wish we earnestly strive towards establishing a more equitable and inclusive political system throughout Nigeria.
I extend my sincerest wishes for the best to the people of Osun this Saturday.
May peace and order indeed prevail throughout the election, enabling the people of Osun to exercise their democratic rights free from fear or intimidation.
0 $type={blogger}:
Post a Comment