The Olu of Imasayi, Oba Lukman Kuoye, has expressed his support for President Bola Tinubu's bid for a second term, citing the country's gradual economic recovery under the current administration. Speaking at his palace in Imasayi, Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State, Kuoye pointed to ongoing federal government infrastructure projects as evidence of progress. He highlighted the reconstruction and rehabilitation of roads, particularly those linking Atan, Agbara, Olorule-Meji, and Imeko-Afon on the coastal highway.
Kuoye, a former member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), praised Tinubu's political record and his ability to develop and support other politicians. He acknowledged that the government's economic reforms would take time to produce broad-based benefits, arguing that there was no quick solution to the country's economic challenges. The monarch noted that successive administrations had attempted to manage the economy, but the Tinubu government was seeking to restructure it more fundamentally.
According to Kuoye, Nigeria is better off than it was before Tinubu became president, and he expects conditions to improve significantly over the next few years. The monarch also cited declining political tensions and increased economic activity as reasons for Nigerians to celebrate ahead of the country's 66th independence anniversary. He attributed improved electricity supply to progress under the current administration, noting that his palace had enjoyed stable power for several hours.
Kuoye urged politicians to avoid desperation for political office and to prepare for life outside government. Drawing from his experience as a former vice-chairman of Ado-Odo Local Government in Ogun State, he chose not to seek another political position after leaving office. Instead, he applied for employment and was appointed by the National Identity Management Commission. He emphasized the importance of having an alternative career or source of income.
The monarch advised politicians to return to their businesses and professions after completing their appointments or elective terms, rather than continually seeking political positions. He also urged political actors to accept that leadership opportunities would not always come at the time they wanted. Kuoye emphasized that it is God that ordains leadership opportunities, and that patience and perseverance are essential.
Kuoye's endorsement of Tinubu's second-term bid is significant, given his stature as a traditional ruler in Ogun State. The monarch's comments also reflect the views of some Nigerians who believe that the current administration has made progress in addressing the country's economic challenges. However, others may disagree, citing the high cost of living and other socio-economic issues.
As the country prepares to celebrate its 66th independence anniversary, Kuoye's message to politicians and Nigerians is one of hope and caution. He encourages politicians to be prepared for life outside government and to focus on building a better future for the country. The monarch's words are likely to resonate with many Nigerians who are eager to see the country move forward.
Key points
- Ogun monarch, Oba Lukman Kuoye, backs President Bola Tinubu's second-term bid, citing economic reforms and infrastructure projects as signs of progress.
- Kuoye emphasizes the importance of having an alternative career or source of income for politicians.
- The monarch urges politicians to return to their businesses and professions after completing their appointments or elective terms.
