Your Excellency, I trust this letter reaches you in good health and high spirits. It has nearly become customary for me to pen down my thoughts or voice my opinions publicly, even in the face of criticism from various quarters. Some have raised concerns about my diverse roles as a human rights advocate, anti-corruption champion, author, and public policy analyst, while continuing to provide impartial weekly analyses.
When I began this journey, I made a commitment to remain transparent and objective, and I trust that you value honesty.
In our three meetings, I’ve noted your openness to constructive feedback. Our first encounter was during the COVID-19 pandemic, where I represented my organization as part of civil society efforts monitoring food and cash palliatives. You sought our input on how the state could manage the economic fallout of the pandemic. You mentioned that you had just come from the North Central Governors’ meeting and, given our non-political stance, you asked for our recommendations on how to navigate the pandemic and diversify the state’s economy. I shared my thoughts, as did others.
Our second meeting took place at the Kwara Central budget town hall meeting held at Kwara Hotel. I spoke on behalf of civil society organizations in Kwara State, emphasizing the challenges in tracking projects and the uneven distribution of funds among local governments in the state budget. You took note of my concerns, and my contributions were later addressed.
Our most recent meeting occurred at the College of Education, Ilorin road, after my organization conducted a reevaluation of the road project. I was set to present the report to you in the presence of the contractor, former Commissioner of Works, Engineer Rotimi Iliasu, and engineers from the Kwara State Ministry of Works. As you exited your official vehicle, accompanied by your security detail, you greeted me warmly with, “Comrade, well done! How are you?” I responded, “My Governor, sir,” and proceeded to present the report, which was then handed over to you.
I must commend you for your insightful comments that day. You faulted the Commissioner for not seeking variations and utilizing the shortfall to construct interlocking at Odo-Okun Secondary School, located opposite the College of Education Ilorin. You aptly noted that it was akin to robbing Peter to pay Paul. That moment reinforced my perception of you as an upright person, and I commend you for your integrity.
Before I proceed to the main focus of my letter, Sir, allow me to provide some context, or perhaps a preamble. I have chosen to address you openly through my weekly column, “Pentalk,” published in Kwara Express, which also reaches the nine lawmakers representing Kwara State at the National Assembly, the twenty-four Kwara House of Assembly members, and local government chairmen. As you know, a pen allows the free flow of a writer’s thoughts, and today, my pen is directed toward you. The reason for documenting my thoughts in this manner is to preserve them for posterity, Sir.
As a Yoruba proverb says, “Agbalagba Okijebi”, meaning “an elder is always right.” It feels somewhat daunting for someone like me to offer advice to a distinguished individual of your standing, the number one citizen of Kwara State. However, our previous three encounters have demonstrated your openness to constructive feedback. In my interactions with six members of your inner circle, I’ve observed that some refrain from speaking up, possibly out of fear of your reaction.
I want to make it clear that I’m not seeking favors. When my younger brother was diagnosed with kidney failure and we needed over twenty million naira for a transplant, I initially hesitated to approach the government for help. However, someone suggested seeking financial assistance from the Kwara State Government (KWSG). Despite being advised by one of your respected aides not to, I used my letterhead to formally request aid. I insisted on doing so, questioning whether being straightforward makes one unworthy of government support.
Regrettably, my request for assistance was rejected, and my brother passed away just a week later. I voiced my frustration in an article titled “Despicable Politics in Kwara State,” pointing out how neither local philanthropists nor the government could step in to save him. One of your aides, in an online WhatsApp group, remarked that I shouldn’t have sought help from the government, proudly claiming that he wouldn’t have done so. I responded, challenging such arrogance.
This experience exposed the haughtiness of some members of your inner circle, including an elder from my ward who serves in your cabinet. He even refused to take my mother’s calls, branding us as “opposition.” We’ve since moved on, understanding that life is short, and only our good deeds will speak for us in the end. It’s become clear to me that individuals like these are incapable of offering you genuine, constructive feedback.
This experience highlights the nature of politics in Kwara State. In contrast, I commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his magnanimity toward the late Yinka Odumakin, one of his staunch critics. No matter what Tinubu did as Governor, Odumakin would always criticize him, even if he had insight into Tinubu’s personal life, such as how he met Senator Remi. Yet, when Odumakin fell ill and required surgery abroad, Tinubu, as the Lagos State Governor, covered his medical expenses. This gesture reflects Tinubu’s capacity to rise above criticism and not repay negativity with negativity, a quality he has demonstrated on numerous occasions throughout his career.
My dear Governor,
I want to continue speaking honestly with you. Despite the involvement of prominent individuals, traditional rulers, civil society organizations (CSOs), faith-based organizations (FBOs), community-based organizations (CBOs), and religious leaders in Kwara State, none have addressed the demolition issues, and I am left wondering why there has been such silence.
Your Excellency, God Almighty has blessed you greatly. After several attempts, you finally became governor in 2019. Some even say that you are the most fortunate among your siblings, despite holding fewer academic qualifications. You have every reason to be grateful to God.
Concerning the demolition of Honorable Mashood Mustapha’s complex, I’ve read articles from both the government and the opposition. The timing of the demolition raises questions, especially after your disagreement with Honorable Mashood Mustapha regarding the Kwara Hotel contract. Some view this as a political move, considering that the race for the 2027 governorship has already begun. I understand that 2027 will be a crucial year for your political legacy in Kwara State, potentially giving you another eight years of influence, similar to Saraki’s tenure as the political leader in the state. I mentioned this in my last article, titled “Who Says GAA Doesn’t Understand Politics.” However, if your chosen candidate fails in the election, it could signal the end of your political influence, as dissatisfied party members may turn against you. No one can predict what tomorrow holds.
In politics, it’s vital not to create permanent enemies, as you may one day need their support. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu embodies this principle, having learned from the late Abiola that everyone holds value, even those seen as outsiders. In an interview, Tinubu mentioned that he avoids viewing anyone as a permanent adversary, instead focusing on the potential in every individual. This approach aligns with the wisdom found in Robert Greene’s 48 Laws of Power. I’d like to emphasize Law 45, which states, “Preach the need for change, but never reform too much at once,” and Law 33, “Discover each man’s thumbscrew,” both of which advise caution in making unnecessary enemies.
Moreover, Law 42, “Strike the shepherd and the sheep will scatter,” reminds leaders to nurture key relationships. Greene’s laws stress the importance of adaptability, strategic alliances, and measured actions in the political arena.
Your Excellency, I’m not here to criticize your actions or advocate for Honorable Mashood Mustapha regarding the demolition. Having met him only twice, I can attest that he’s a good, extroverted, and straightforward person. Our first encounter was in Abuja in 2021, after my first book launch, where I invited him through his aide. Although he didn’t attend or respond, we later met at a program organized by Mr. Olarewaju Suraju, founder of HEDA Resource Center, featuring Femi Falana SAN as guest speaker.
I was surprised to see Honorable Mashood Mustapha after the launch, and he warmly greeted me, apologizing for missing my invite. Our second meeting was in Ilorin, where he again addressed me as “Oloko Mashood.” Meaning (my namesake Mashood) While I don’t have a close relationship with him, I believe in building connections with people.
As an anti-corruption advocate, I’ve vowed never to contribute to anyone’s downfall. Your Excellency, consider President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approach during the #EndSars protests, where his investments, including TVC News and The Nation Newspaper, were attacked. Despite knowing the perpetrators, he chose not to pursue revenge or frustrate their lives, recognizing the importance of surrounding himself with people.
Leaders must manage relationships effectively and avoid creating enemies. I want to caution you about those who once supported Bukola Saraki that are now with you, claiming an Islamic cleric in Mali predicted Saraki would rule Kwara State for eighty years. However, Saraki only led for sixteen years as political leader. Now, these same individuals are backing you, but be cautious they’re primarily driven by political interests and may abandon you if the situation changes. Their loyalty is fleeting, and they’ll likely move on to the next politician who can advance their courses — Beware of them.
It’s essential to recognize that politicians like Saraki who served as President of the Nigerian Senate and Governor of Kwara State, attract loyalists who may prioritize personal gain over genuine support. Be mindful of these dynamics to maintain a strong, trustworthy support base. These individuals may disappear when the table turns, leaving you to face the consequences of their actions like they done to Saraki and now with you.
Your Excellency, I’d like to remind you that my intention isn’t to criticize your actions or advocate for Honorable Mashood Mustapha regarding the demolition. Instead, I urge you to emulate the leadership styles of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Obafemi Awolowo.
Tinubu’s approach to criticism is notable. Despite Baba Ayo Adebajo’s constant criticism; after becoming Lagos State Governor in 1999, Tinubu chose to honor Adebajo on his birthday. Although he eventually sent gifts instead of attending, this gesture showcases his ability to rise above criticism.
Similarly, Awolowo demonstrated remarkable tolerance towards criticism. Late Oluaboderin, founder of Punch Newspaper, was a vocal critic of Awolowo, yet Awolowo sent Lateef Jankande to present gifts on his birthday. When questioned, Awolowo explained that through his critics, he identified areas for improvement, whereas his supporters wouldn’t dare point out his shortcomings.
I recall you once saying that critics help by exposing what you’re unaware of. By embracing criticism and showing appreciation, you’ll build a broader support base and reduce potential political enemies.
I presented two copies of my book to a former minister earlier this year. He briefed me about your meeting with him, where he asked why you’ve turned Kwara politics into a fight between you and the Saraki family. You seemed taken aback, taking several minutes to respond, and ultimately suggested that the Saraki should be asked that not you.
Now, people are asking similar questions regarding your conflict with Honorable Mashood Mustapha. Your disagreement has made Kwarans aware that you’re not on good terms with him, and many think it would be better if you managed the situation to avoid future conflicts between your family and his family. After all, power is transient, and no one knows what tomorrow holds.
Your Excellency, I believe that despite the challenges on the path to peace, it’s essential to persevere and push forward to reach our desired destination. I trust that you understand my perspective better than I can articulate.
I will continue to write to you and other federal and state political office holders, presenting my thoughts without bias. My commitment is to address issues as they should be, harnessing the power of the pen, which, as we know, is mightier than the sword .
This timeless phrase, coined by Edward Bulwer-Lytton in 1839, reminds us that written words can be more impactful than physical strength. I remain dedicated to sharing my genuine thoughts with you, uncompromising in my pursuit of truth.
In essence, people are urging you to adopt a more conciliatory approach, similar to what President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Obafemi Awolowo demonstrated in their leadership styles. They showed that embracing criticism and showing appreciation can build a broader support base and reduce potential enemies .
Some people in Kwara State are saying that as a governor, you’re too busy to read articles written by others, but I disagree. I believe you do read them, you just choose not to respond, perhaps due to your introverted nature and selective engagement with people.
A close associate of yours sent me an article yesterday, saying it came from you, and I asked if it was true. While I may not be close to every politician in Kwara State but I maintain good relationships with their aides, I have a good relationship with some members of your inner circle.
I’m confident that you’ll read my letter, even if you don’t reply. I wish you all the best, sir.
In conclusion, I urge you to prioritize building bridges and maintaining relationships, even with those who may seem oppositional. By doing so, you’ll foster progress and avoid unnecessary conflicts.
Thank you for your understanding, Your Excellency.
I’ll pause here for now and look forward to continuing our conversation soon. Wishing you all the best, sir.
May God bless and prosper Kwara State.
Best regards,
