An Ibadan Chief, Oloye Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke has explained the reasons why quality and effective leaders will continue to elude Nigeria.
Adegoke who doubles as Aare Egbe-Omo Balogun of Ibadanland, explained that capable people who can turn around the fortunes of the country for better will continue to run away from politics due to corruption and bribery, mediocrity, weak institutions and lack of demand for accountability from people in positions of authorities.
He made these assertions on Monday while delivering a paper titled "Democracy and search for quality leadership in Nigeria" at the opening of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Oyo State council press week.
The event which was held at NUJ Secretariat, Iyaganku Ibadan, was attended by governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Segun Ogunwuyi, Chairman, Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria and Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, Special Adviser on Media to governor Makinde, Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju and his counterpart, Special Adviser on Labour, Comrade Bayo Titilola Sodo, NUJ Chairman, Comrade Ademola Babalola and scores of journalists in the state.
Adegoke while addressing the gathering, noted that quality leaders will continue to shun Nigerian politics due to corruption, bribery, mediocrity, lack of demand for accountability and weak institutions.
He said that for Nigeria to have quality leaders who will turn around the fortune of the country, there is a need for the people to participate in politics and encourage merit during electoral processes.
Adegoke while charging the citizens to play active roles in the electoral processes, added that for the country to move forward, the current government must invest in quality education.
He concluded by saying that the search for quality leadership in Nigeria requires attitudinal change, collective and collaborative efforts of every Nigerian.
He then used the opportunity to appeal to the citizens to work together to build a Nigeria where leaders are chosen based on merit, not mediocrity.
He said "Citizens should demand accountability from their leaders by asking questions, seeking information, and holding them responsible for their actions. Citizens should support institutions that promote good governance, such as independent judiciary, free press, and anti-corruption agencies.
"Citizens should invest in education and critical thinking to be able to make informed decisions and participate effectively in the democratic process. Citizens should participate in the electoral process by voting, contesting for office, and engaging in civic activities. The search for quality leadership in Nigeria requires attitudinal change, collective and collaborative efforts of every Nigerian. We must work together to build a Nigeria where leaders are chosen based on merit, not mediocrity".
Makinde who spoke through his Chief of Staff, Hon Segun Ogunwuyi, charged the media to continue to play its critical roles in the democratic processes.
Makinde, who commended the leadership of the union, also noted that as a government, the state will continue to partner with journalists in the state to move the state forward.
He said, "This year’s Press Week theme — “Democracy and the Search for Quality Leadership in Nigeria Ahead of the 2027 General Election” — could not have been more timely. It speaks directly to the heart of our national challenge: how to strengthen democratic values and ensure that leadership at all levels truly serves the people.
"As we approach another election cycle, it is essential that the media continues to play its noble role — not as a tool for division, but as a beacon of accountability and civic education, helping citizens make informed choices and holding leaders to the highest standards of integrity.
"Permit me also, on behalf of the Governor, to heartily congratulate the Right Honourable Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, who is being recognized today as Outstanding Legislative Leader of the Year. This honour is well deserved and reflects the productive synergy between the Executive and Legislature in advancing good governance in Oyo State.
"Most importantly, we must acknowledge and celebrate the exemplary service of Comrade Demola Babalola and his team, who will be completing their two-term tenure this December. Over the past six years, they have demonstrated uncommon dedication, unity, and professionalism, leaving the Union stronger than they met it.
"On behalf of His Excellency, I congratulate Comrade Babalola and the entire outgoing Executive for their leadership, and wish the Union a smooth and peaceful transition. As your Grand Patron, Governor Seyi Makinde remains committed to maintaining a government that listens, engages, and works hand-in-hand with the media for the collective progress of our dear State.
"Once again, congratulations to the NUJ Oyo State Council on the successful opening of your 2025 Press Week. May this week’s events inspire even greater commitment to truth, justice, and the ideals of democracy.
Ogundoyin, while speaking appeal to the youths not to shun politics because majority of them have the capacity to lead the country.
He said, "A lot of youths have the capacity and what we need to do is to take ownership of our communities. We must not feel that we are inadequate or we are not up to the task.
"I beg them and appeal to the youths to have confidence in themselves and take up the mantle of leadership because they can't give it to us unless we aspire".
Olanrewaju and Sodo in their separate remarks appreciated the leadership of the union and journalists in the state for the critical roles they have been playing in informing, educating and enlighten the people on the activities of the current government in the state.
Babalola, in his opening address thanked the state government and his colleagues for their support in the last six years. He charged the incoming executive members of the union to consolidate on his achievements.
ENDS
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