A Heart of Gratitude: One Year Holding Office in Trust for the People

By all standards, gratitude is best expressed not only in words but in service. Today marks one full year since I was officially sworn in as a Supervisory Councillor in Ògbómọ̀sọ́ North Local Government, a moment that came with mixed reactions, loud expectations and quiet doubts. While some questioned my worthiness and preparedness, I chose to see the appointment as a sacred trust, one that must be justified through humility, learning and service to the people.

I remain profoundly grateful to those who believed in me when it mattered most and stood firm in support of my journey. My godfather and mentor, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi, whose guidance and confidence steadied my steps, Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke, a man with a truly large heart, and Mr Ogunsina Oluwaseun Micheal, whose loyalty and commitment have gone beyond what many biological brothers would do. I owe these men an eternal debt of gratitude for seeing beyond my limitations, believing in my potential and walking me through the process of leadership. When one calls upon God once, He answers more than three times, and I pray that as they have lifted me, their children and generations after them will also receive grace, mercy and favour from God and from humanity. Amen.

The past year has been a season of learning and growth. It has exposed me to the true business of governance, understanding people, managing expectations, building consensus and realising that leadership is not about position but responsibility. I have learnt that public office demands patience, sacrifice and a constant readiness to give back, not only to one’s political party but, more importantly, to the generality of the people.

In further demonstration of this commitment to service, I facilitated the provision of two boreholes in my ward, one at Ojúde Aisiekun and the second one at Ilé Èwe all at Okelerin. This intervention was not driven by politics but made possible through my personal relationship, courtesy of a non governmental organisation. It was deliberately done without any political colouration, reaffirming my belief that access to clean water is a basic human need and should never be politicised.

As I reflect on this first year, I do so with thanksgiving and renewed resolve. The journey ahead promises to be better and bigger, in service delivery and people oriented governance. What has been entrusted to me by the people will continue to be held in trust, guided by integrity, fairness and a sincere desire to make a positive difference.

Above all, I give thanks to God Almighty and to the good people of Ògbómọ̀sọ́ North for the opportunity to serve. The work continues.