Why Oyo Needs Power Rotation: A Rejoinder to “No Argument, Let Others Try to Compete with Ibadan People” ~ AbdulWaheed Lawal
I find it deeply disappointing that anyone, especially a Yoruba man ,
particularly an Ibadan indigene for that matter, would argue that others should simply “compete” with Ibadan for the governorship. Such thinking reflects intolerance, selfishness, and a monopolistic mindset.
Debate and advocacy are essential in politics. It is always better to engage in dialogue than to allow tensions to fester. The call for “competition” ignores the Yoruba tradition of communal accommodation, where fairness is achieved by ensuring everyone has a chance. As our elders say, Ajoje ko dùn bí ẹnìkan kò bá ní-shared prosperity is only meaningful when no one is left out.
Historically, Yoruba society has used rotation and inclusion to resolve leadership questions, long before the advent of Western democracy. This principle is why we have ruling houses and why, at the national level, the North has repeatedly demonstrated political maturity by conceding the presidency to the South for the sake of unity. If the North, with its larger population, could do this for the Yoruba and other minorities, why can’t Ibadan do the same for other zones in Oyo State?
Relying solely on population strength as justification for Ibadan’s continued dominance is flawed. If this logic were applied nationally, only the most populous regions would ever produce leaders, shutting out smaller groups indefinitely. Yet, Nigeria has seen presidents emerge from minority regions because of negotiation, concession, and a commitment to fairness.
Oyo State, as the pacesetter, should lead by example. Other states in the South-West have elected governors from less populous areas, showing that love, understanding, and negotiation can produce inclusive outcomes.
Asking “who are the possible candidates” before agreeing to power rotation is a diversion. When the North conceded the presidency to the South-West in 1999, they did not demand to know the candidates in advance. They acted to heal wounds and promote unity.
If Ibadan truly wishes to demonstrate leadership, it should concede the governorship to another zone. Osogbo , Akure, Ikeja, Abeokuta, Ado Ekiti are not monopolosing the governorship of their states because they are capital cities.
Again, If the other zones present an unworthy candidate, Ibadan and the rest of the state can then make their choice at the polls. But refusing to allow power to shift on the basis of numbers alone is unjust and undermines the spirit of democracy and brotherhood.
Let us embrace equity and fairness, and ensure every part of Oyo State has a stake in its leadership. That is the true path to unity and progress. Why do we embrace and practise
zoning at the national level but reject sane in Oyo State?
