As we mark this year’s Lisabi Day in honour of Lisabi Agbongbo Akala, we are compelled to reflect not only on our proud heritage but on the urgent question of the political future of the Egba people in Ogun State. History places a burden of clarity on us: we must define our interests with precision and determine the limits of accommodation we are prepared to accept.
The principle of power management, rooted in the sacrifices of our forebears, has always guided the balance that sustains Ogun State. From the old provincial structure where Egba once stood at the center alongside Ijebu and the territories stretching toward Mahin to the present configuration of Egba, Ijebu/Remo, and Yewa/Awori blocs, equity has been the stabilizing doctrine. That doctrine must not now be distorted.
On the matter of 2027, it is neither rational nor just to contemplate a prolonged concentration of governorship power in Iperu. The suggestion that one locality could hold sway for an extended 16-year stretch is politically untenable and strategically dismissive of the delicate balance that has preserved peace across Ogun State.
Equally concerning is the signal sent by recent traditional realignments, particularly actions associated with figures such as Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, which appear to bypass established Egba institutions. Such moves, especially in the context of a transitioning Ijebu traditional structure following the passing of Oba Sikiru Adetona, risk being interpreted as part of a broader pattern to sideline Egba influence in both the first and second positions of power in the state. This is unacceptable. Cooperation must never be mistaken for weakness, and inclusion must never come at the cost of dignity.
Internally, we must also confront the developmental stagnation within Egba divisions Abeokuta North and South, Odeda, Obafemi Owode, Ifo, and Ewekoro. Critical infrastructure remains underdeveloped or abandoned, from the neglected Ewekoro airstrip project to the incomplete civic and cultural assets in Abeokuta. Land allocation practices, particularly in areas like Ibara GRA, raise serious ethical and generational concerns. These are not merely administrative lapses; they are strategic failures that weaken our collective standing.
Furthermore, institutions such as the University of Medicine and other economic enablers in Egba land require deliberate investment, not symbolic gestures. Development must align with our demographic weight and historic contributions.
At the national level, the role of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who also holds the respected title of Areago of Egbaland, will be closely observed. Consultation is not a courtesy it is a necessity. The Egba people cannot and will not accept decisions imposed without their input regarding the leadership of Ogun State. Political legitimacy in 2027 will be anchored on local consensus, not external imposition.
Let it be clearly stated: Egbaland will define its path. The legacy of Moshood Kashimawo Abiola reminds us that sacrifice, resilience, and conviction are the pillars upon which enduring progress is built. That legacy obliges us to act with unity, discipline, and strategic clarity.
Egba mo Lisabi.
Omo Agbongbo Akala.
Omo a ṣẹ́ ilékun, palẹ́kun dé.
Omo yúmùyúmù lóró ké.
Aku ọdún o. Lisabi Agbe wa o.
Otunba Segun Showunmi is Odofin Keesi Abeokuta
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