Opinion: My Leader, My Leader: A Journey Through Leadership and Loyalty.

Nigeria

The Dying Spirit of Progressivism

In the ever-evolving political landscape of Nigeria, many progressive ideals have faced overwhelming challenges, particularly in the southwestern region. The decade of the 2000s marked a tumultuous period for democratic governance, marred by political deception and a systemic erosion of hope among the progressive populace. The political machinery, spearheaded by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), aimed to entrench itself through manipulation and outright theft of electoral mandates a dire situation that left citizens yearning for authentic leadership. At the heart of this struggle stood one influential figure Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a man whose resolute leadership has been a beacon for progressives. 

The Fight for Integrity and Representation**

I did not start to be proud of Tinubu merely because he later rescued the entire nation from oblivion; my pride and respect for him blossomed at a time when he primarily focused on uplifting Lagos State and asserting the rights of the five progressive states wronged by the PDP. Beyond mere political ambition, his commitment to restoring the integrity of democracy and advocating for the people transformed him into a much-respected leader among the progressive class. When the Alliance for Democracy (AD), which he once led, was wrested from his grasp by forces like former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Afenifere, he remained a symbol of resilience. He was indeed my Leader at a time when my hopes were waning, when political despair seemed insurmountable.

Tinubu’s decision to create the Action Congress (AC) served as a platform for the disheartened Southwest progressives, symbolizing hope rekindled. He represented the voice of the common citizen, standing tall against the injustices perpetrated by the ruling power. This indomitable spirit of standing against “governmental oppression” echoed throughout the region, reminding us that true leadership often emerges in times of adversity.

**The Path of Persistent Progressivism**

Throughout the years, my allegiance to Tinubu grew not merely from admiration but from witnessing his unwavering fight for justice. When the political landscape was marred by repeated electoral theft in 2007, he became the vanguard against blatant rigging, vocally declaring, “Enough is enough.” This mantra of integrity reverberated throughout the political realm, as he championed leaders like Adams Oshiomhole and Olusegun Mimiko in reclaiming their mandates. His boldness inspired hope, leading to the recovery of stolen victories in Ekiti and Osun states. Each victory fortified my belief in him as my Leader, a figure whose vision for progress extended beyond mere political survival.

The transformation of AC into ACN was no trivial matter. It symbolized a renaissance of Obafemi Awolowo’s progressive ideals, affording a renewed sense of identity to the southwestern region. By crafting the All Progressives Congress (APC) from the ashes of ACN, Tinubu didn’t just bring together disparate factions; he united a formidable force for change, marked by comments like, “It is Buhari; Asiwaju has spoken and we’ve heard!” His endorsement was not just a statement but a roadmap for the future of Nigeria.

However, as with any effective leader, challenges continued to mount. There he stood alone amid a cacophony of dissenting voices against the administration during the National Assembly crises, where those once aligned with the cause turned against it. Yet, within the storm, he remained unwavering in support of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration a testament to his loyalty and commitment to collective prosperity.

**Embrace Progressive Ideals**

In a nation where fragmentation is common, the legacy of Tinubu stands as a lighthouse of hope and resilience. He is not only by his triumphs but by his enduring capacity to forgive and strategize a leader like those who came before him, such as Awolowo, Ajasin, and Ige. I have witnessed how he has redefined leadership in Nigeria not just as a position of authority but as a commitment to continuous selflessness and progressive ideals.

As members of the progressive community, we must rally behind leaders who embody tenacity and altruism. Let us not forget the virtues of resilience and forgiveness that Tinubu epitomizes essential qualities for nurturing leaders of tomorrow. Indeed, my leader is Bola Ahmed Tinubu; he remains my Leader. Good afternoon to all Progressives!

Otunba (Dr.) Abdulfalil Abayomi Odunowo is a public policy analyst, engineer, and the National Chairman of the Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu Support Group (AATSG).

Article sent by Correspondent, Dooyum Naadzenga