AmanaOnline

Chief Moshood Kashimawo Abiola was a self-made billionaire — a man who rose from humble beginnings through sheer hard work, business acumen, and an unwavering commitment to the betterment of others. He gave generously, not to buy loyalty, but because he believed in lifting people out of poverty and ignorance. His pan-Nigerian spirit and democratic sacrifice in 1993 earned him a revered place in our nation’s conscience.

Chief Obafemi Awolowo, on the other hand, was a man of towering intellect and discipline. A constitutionalist and economist, Awolowo believed in purposeful governance — he channeled limited resources into free education, healthcare, and industrialization in the old Western Region. His leadership was not anchored on rhetoric but on deeply rooted ideological convictions and policy execution. His goal was not personal enrichment but national progress.

Now, the question must be asked:

Are we to place Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the same category as these giants?

Tinubu’s political rise is often credited to his strategic acumen and the consolidation of influence, particularly in Lagos. But influence without integrity is not legacy — it is a liability. His governance record is increasingly stained by allegations of corruption, entrenched patronage networks, and the erosion of democratic values. The wealth he commands is shrouded in mystery. His leadership style thrives on godfatherism, not public service.

To celebrate such a model as the pinnacle of Yoruba political success is not only misleading — it is dangerous. It sends the wrong message to young Nigerians that accumulated power and personal enrichment outweigh vision, service, and sacrifice.

Awolowo used public funds to educate generations. Tinubu, by contrast, is associated with using public systems to empower a loyal few. Abiola spent his wealth to unite Nigeria; Tinubu’s machinery arguably deepens division while preserving control.

So again, we ask:

Has kleptocracy become a celebrated Yoruba virtue?

Or are we in danger of redefining heroism by the size of one’s political machinery rather than the sincerity of one’s public service?

This is not about ethnicity. It is about ethics. The Yoruba people are known for their deep-rooted values of Omoluabi — honor, justice, and service. To align these values with unchecked kleptocracy is a gross misrepresentation of a proud cultural heritage.

Nigeria must not allow history to be rewritten by propaganda. We must return to a politics of principle — one that values transparency, development, equity, and truth.

We owe it to the legacies of men like Awolowo and Abiola.

We owe it to ourselves.