By Dr Peter Akande

Senator Sharafadeen Alli has every constitutional right to aspire to become Governor of Oyo State. However, ambition alone is not a qualification, and the number of political offices occupied is not necessarily a measure of achievements.

As a former Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, SSG, Chief of Staff and now Senator representing Oyo South, the question is simple: what enduring legacies has he left behind, and how many people has he genuinely empowered politically?

How many of his followers has he helped to become Councillors, Local Government Chairmen, Members of the Oyo State House of Assembly or Members of the House of Representatives? A true political leader is measured not only by the offices he occupies but also by the number of people he raises, empowers and helps to fulfil their own political aspirations.

There are also legitimate historical questions about his relationship with former Governor Rashidi Ladoja, now the Olubadan of Ibadanland, under whom he served as SSG. What informed his removal from that office, and what were the circumstances surrounding his subsequent appointment as Chief of Staff? These matters deserve a fair, fact-based explanation rather than political mythology.

Furthermore, Senator Alli was elected in 2023, the same year Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central entered the Senate. Nigerians can reasonably compare their legislative visibility, constituency impact and demonstrable achievements. Has Senator Alli matched the level of performance and public impact expected of someone aspiring to govern an entire state? That is a question his supporters must answer with evidence, not excuses.

Oyo people deserve more than political titles, photographs with powerful personalities and promises of a brighter future. They deserve measurable achievements, empowered followers, transformed communities and a clear vision for tomorrow.

Before asking Oyo State for the keys to Agodi Government House, Senator Sharafadeen Alli should first allow the people to examine the dividends of his many years in public service.

In 2027, let every candidate present their record. Let the evidence speak, and let the people decide. Oyo State belongs to its people, not to any individual, political dynasty or godfather.