Let’s take a step back and reflect on the fundamental convention that defines human and nation greatness. It is undeniable that the value of process, equanimity, and justice are essential components of a prosperous and harmonious society.
The ability of a nation to uphold these principles is a hallmark of its greatness. It is crucial that we prioritise these eternal truths in our noble pursuit of development. This entails cultivating a conducive atmosphere that supports transparency, accountability, and inclusivity, where every citizen has a voice and is treated with dignity.
Time and experience have shown that there are many complexities in human nature. It is inherent in humans to resist change and grow defensive towards unfamiliar concepts, particularly when they pertain to reforms and policies that affect a large scale of people.
However, upon closer inspection, these changes often aim to serve the collective good. It is essential that we acknowledge inherent resistance and strive to educate and enlighten ourselves and others, on the benefits of progressive, adaptive and incremental change. We must identify that change is an inevitable aspect of growth and development. Embracing change requires willingness to challenge assumptions, question biases, and be open to new ideas and perspectives. This mindset is crucial for building a society that is resilient, innovative, and forward-thinking.
The Oyo State governance and development trajectory has sometimes in the past been hindered by responses that stem from a lack of understanding of policies and their intended outcomes. It is possible that the government’s intentions are genuine, and their policies are designed to benefit the people. Nevertheless, it is crucial that the government guides the people in understanding their vision and objectives. I think this is one of the cornerstones of democracy – an informed and engaged citizenry. Effective communication is key to building trust and having citizen engagement. It is essential in enabling opportunities to participate in the democratic process, hold leaders accountable, and contribute to the development of the community. It is sacrosanct that the government prioritises transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement in its governance framework.
My personal and governance philosophy is rooted in the belief that regular communication and feedbacks are essential components of effective leadership. The people must be informed about the government’s actions and decisions, and they must be given a platform to contribute to the vision for prosperity and influence. This can be achieved in a number of ways; through policy communication, press briefings, question and answer series, and other mechanisms that facilitate dialogue between the government and the people. I believe very strongly that leadership is not about imposing one’s will on others, but supporting citizens to take ownership of their destiny, – and this asks for a leader who is willing to listen, learn, and adapt to the needs and aspirations of the people.
It is clear that new opportunities are emerging globally, and people’s perceptions of government are shifting. In Oyo State, the people have been fortunate to have quality representation and consistent feedback in recent years. I intend to build upon this foundation, take it to new heights, and ensure that the people remain central to our governance philosophy. A lot of commitment to innovation will be involved, commitment to creativity and continuous learning. We must be willing to experiment with new approaches, leverage on technology, and collaborate with civil societies, the private sector, and other stakeholders to drive development and improve the lives of our citizens.
Personally, I believe in the importance of transparency and accountability. My professional life and history are open books. And I hope to ensure that the people are constantly kept informed about our actions and decisions. Regular communication and updates will be central to our administration. This is not only a matter of principle, but I see it as a necessary condition for effective governance. We must all agree that accountability is a two-way street; not only must leaders be accountable to the people, but the citizens must also hold themselves accountable for their actions and contributions to the development of their community. We must embrace mutual accountability for genuine just, equity, and prosperity for everyone.
Governance is indeed a marathon, not a sprint, – it is characterised by a continuous process of iterative improvements and adjustments which requires a deep understanding of the complex nature of humans and society, as well as a willingness to adapt and evolve in response to emerging challenges and opportunities. Individuals, including myself, seeking political office to lead and govern must acknowledge this dynamic process, and possess a profound vision for the social environment they seek to shape, guided by a commitment to justice, equanimity, and transparency, – also must be informed, have the understanding of the sensitive relationships between individuals, communities, and institutions.
~ Amofin Beulah Adeoye
Friday, February 7, 2025
