Azeez Yakub’s Empty Chair: When Pride Keeps a Leader Away from His People

The recent Town Hall Meeting organized by Hon. Raheem Tunji Olawuyi (Ajuloopin), Member representing Ekiti/Irepodun/Isin/Oke-Ero Federal Constituency, was more than just a political event, it was a gathering of vision, unity, and public accountability.

From our revered traditional rulers to party stalwarts, youth leaders, and development-minded citizens, the hall in Omu-Aran was filled with people who genuinely care about the progress of our constituency. Conversations were rich, ideas were exchanged, and the future looked promising. It was, without question, a resounding success.

Yet, amid the inspiring atmosphere, one thing cast a shadow, the conspicuous absence of the Irepodun Local Government Chairman, Hon. Azeez Yakub

In leadership, absence speaks louder than presence. The Chairman’s decision to stay away from a meeting of such significance, one that directly affects the people he claims to serve, can only be interpreted as a deliberate act of pride and misplaced self-importance.

It is unfortunate when a local leader begins to see himself above collective dialogue. The Town Hall was not Ajuloopin’s personal party; it was a civic platform where everyone, from monarchs to market women, had a voice. So, what exactly could justify such an absence, except a bloated sense of ego and the politics of self over service?

True leaders listen to their people; they do not hide behind walls of pride or political bitterness.

Town Hall Meetings are a core part of democratic engagement. They allow citizens to interact directly with their representatives, share ideas, and ask questions. For a Local Government Chairman to snub such an opportunity is a clear reflection of a misunderstanding of governance and a lack of political maturity.

Leadership is not about occupying an office,  it’s about presence, empathy, and responsiveness. Those who fail to show up where the people gather, fail the very essence of democracy.

While some are busy nurturing personal grudges, Hon. Ajuloopin continues to raise the bar of representation. His Town Hall was not only well-attended, it was applauded by traditional rulers, elders, and youths alike for its openness and inclusivity.

This is how representation should look, engaging, transparent, and participatory. Ajuloopin understands that leadership is not about titles; it is about taking initiative and bringing people together.

The recent report of a sponsored protest against the Governor’s SSA on New Media, Akeweje Olayinka Fafoluyi, allegedly backed by elements loyal to the Irepodun Chairman, further exposes the small-minded politics that have held our local system hostage.

When leaders spend time plotting against others instead of working with them, development stalls. When jealousy replaces teamwork, communities suffer.

Rather than learning from Ajuloopin’s model of engagement and Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s inclusive style of governance, some prefer to dwell in the old, tired politics of envy and division.

The people of Irepodun deserve better. They deserve leaders who put service above pride, and cooperation above conflict. Public office should never be a personal empire; it is a sacred trust given by the people.

Hon. Yakub’s absence was not just a physical one, it was symbolic of a deeper disconnect between leadership and responsibility. One hopes he will reflect, retrace his steps, and remember that leadership is not about self-importance, but selfless service.

Hon. Ajuloopin has once again shown what it means to lead with purpose, humility, and vision.

Barr. Tejumola Abodunrin writes from Omu-Aran, Kwara State