Lekan Yusuf, Ibadan
The atmosphere was charged with intellectual energy and hope on Tuesday as legal luminary and respected political figure, Barr. Adedeji Akeem Agbaje, delivered the keynote address at the 2025 Oyo State Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Week, held in Ibadan.
With the theme “Governance, Democracy, Politicians, and Society — Bridging the Gap Between Expectation and Delivery,” Barr. Agbaje’s address was a stirring call for moral leadership, institutional reform, and a renewed social contract between leaders and the people.
In his speech, he described democracy as “the collective will, welfare, and wellbeing of the people,” but lamented that Nigeria’s democratic practice often falls short of its ideals. According to him, the gap between campaign promises and actual governance outcomes has widened, leading to growing public distrust.
> “Our problem as a nation is not the absence of democracy but the absence of democratic values in governance,” Agbaje declared. “While elections are held periodically, the institutions that should transform political power into public good remain weak or compromised.”
He identified weak institutions, corruption, flawed leadership recruitment, and citizen apathy as key reasons for Nigeria’s underperformance in democratic governance. He also emphasized that the media remains a vital partner in rebuilding trust and accountability, urging journalists to pursue truth with fairness and courage.
> “The media must not only report events but also shape national values and hold every arm of government to its constitutional duties,” he said. “A free, responsible, and patriotic press is the backbone of any enduring democracy.”
A Vision for Oyo State: People First Governance
When asked what he would do differently if elected as the next Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Agbaje spoke with conviction, asserting that governance must begin and end with the people.
> “I don’t believe the bar of governance has been raised because the quality of life of our people has not improved at all,” he said firmly. “Governance is about the people — their security, health care, education, housing, and access to food. Unfortunately, poverty has deepened, and these basic needs are still unmet.”
He expressed strong optimism about his political future, saying,
> “I’m not talking about opportunity — I believe by the grace of God I will be the next governor of Oyo State.”
If given the mandate, he pledged to focus his first 100 days on reviving key sectors that directly affect citizens’ welfare, including security, education, healthcare, and agriculture.
> “I pray that by the time I become governor, I’m able to make significant improvements in these areas,” he noted.
A Leadership Rooted in Integrity and Discipline
Speaking about his personality and value system, Agbaje described himself as a man of integrity guided by honesty and respect for others.
> “With all sense of humility, I’m a very honest person. I keep to promises and agreements. My value system is simple — respect people, treat them right, and do what is right at all times.”
On the issue of weak institutions, he emphasized the importance of leadership by example:
> “Institutions thrive when leadership is firm, disciplined, and exemplary. Once people see that their leader does what is right, they’ll be afraid to do otherwise. Institutions require strong and principled leadership — which I believe I have.”
A Call for Collective Responsibility
Barr. Agbaje concluded by reminding both leaders and citizens that democracy thrives only when all stakeholders play their part with sincerity and commitment.
> “Democracy cannot thrive on words alone. It must be nurtured by actions that place the people at the center of governance. Politicians must honour their oaths, institutions must be strengthened, and citizens must demand accountability.”
He commended the Oyo State NUJ for its continued role in promoting good governance and national development through responsible journalism.
> “Your pen remains one of the strongest instruments of change. Use it to enlighten, to challenge, and to build,” he charged.
The event ended with resounding applause, as journalists, dignitaries, and guests lauded Barr. Agbaje’s clear vision and commitment to transformational governance in Oyo State.
