PIUS ADE BABALEYE
In a passionate appeal laced with both concern and deep political reflection, Otunba Abisoye Oshodi, popularly known as Balogun Eko, has called on former Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, to retrace his steps and return to the political path laid by his long-time benefactor, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Balogun Eko expressed disappointment over Aregbesola’s recent political alliances, which appear to be in direct conflict with the legacy and leadership of Tinubu. He described the recent moves by Aregbesola—aligning with those who have clearly positioned themselves against Asiwaju—as unfortunate and politically unwise.
“Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu took Aregbesola from total obscurity—from a one-room apartment in Akowonjo—to the heights of national relevance, making him Commissioner for Works in Lagos State and later supporting his emergence as Governor of Osun State. That level of loyalty and political grooming should never be repaid with betrayal,” Balogun Eko said.
He cautioned Aregbesola not to bite the hand that fed him, noting that no political misunderstanding—no matter how serious—should erase the bond of gratitude and respect that ought to exist between a mentor and his protégé.
“Whatever has gone wrong between you and Asiwaju, he remains your benefactor and the one who made your political dreams come true,” he added.
Balogun Eko warned that if Aregbesola continues on his current trajectory, he may find himself in political wilderness—isolated and stripped of the influence he once enjoyed.
“This so-called coalition that seeks to unseat Asiwaju will end up in disappointment. Aligning with those who never believed in your rise and who once fought against your emergence is not just politically dangerous, it is morally wrong,” he said.
He urged Aregbesola to reflect deeply and choose the path of reconciliation, reminding him that true leadership is not about pride, but about humility and loyalty.
Balogun Eko’s message is a clarion call not only to Aregbesola but to all political actors: loyalty, gratitude, and respect for one’s roots remain essential virtues in Nigerian politics. And for Aregbesola, who once basked in the glory of Tinubu’s political empire, the door to reconciliation may still be open—but time may be running out.