By AbdulRazaq Omokanye
As political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, the people of Ifelodun/Offa/Oyun Federal Constituency must proceed with caution, clarity, and a firm commitment to truth. The task before us is not just to elect a representative, but to choose a leader whose character, integrity, and consistency can genuinely reflect the values of our people.
Across Ifelodun, Offa, and Oyun, several aspirants have continued to engage with constituents, presenting their visions and seeking support. While this reflects a healthy democratic culture, recent developments suggest the race is entering a decisive phase — one that demands deeper scrutiny of those seeking to lead.
It is in this context that the re-emergence of Hon. Abdulwahab Femi Agbaje Whyte, the Special Adviser on Political Affairs to the Executive Governor of Kwara State, has raised concerns among many stakeholders. Within Kwara’s political space, his reputation is not unknown.
Former member representing Ojomu/Balogun Constituency at the Kwara State House of Assembly, Hon. Saheed Popoola — once a close ally — nicknamed him “Mai Dilali,” a label that many believe reflects a pattern of political maneuvering marked by inconsistency and broken trust.
There are several instances that continue to shape public perception.
During a period of security challenges in his community, he was reportedly entrusted with the procurement of tools to support local safety efforts. That trust, according to accounts still discussed, was allegedly not upheld — a development that left many questioning his sense of responsibility at a critical moment.
Politically, similar concerns have surfaced over time. His alleged actions toward Naje, who once contested for the Kwara State House of Assembly, remain fresh in the minds of observers.
Likewise, the experience of one Chief Ojokure stands out. Chief Ojokure, in the interest of unity, was said to have stepped down his Senate ambition to allow Senator Oyelola Yisa Ashiru continue for a second term. Yet, in a surprising twist, Hon. Whyte reportedly moved to Abuja to secure the same Senate ticket — an attempt that ultimately ended unsuccessfully at the primaries.
The pattern, many believe, did not end there. During the build-up to the last Local Government elections, another understanding was reportedly reached between Hon. Whyte and Chief Ojokure who failed to learn from their past dealings. The agreement, said to have taken place at meetings in Ipee — including one in a hotel and another in the presence of the respected Chief Imam of Offa — was that Chief Ojokure would support the candidate who is now the Executive Chairman of Offa Local Government, both financially and politically, while Hon. Whyte would in return support Chief Ojokure’s House of Representatives ambition in 2027. Today, one can only imagine how Chief Ojokure and other respected stakeholders present at those meetings feel about how events have unfolded.
Further concerns arose when Hon. Whyte reportedly led efforts to position Hajia Dr. Muheebah Fareedah Dankaka, former Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission, as a party leader in Offa, despite the presence of a sitting Senator and other elected representatives. He was also said to have promised support for her senatorial ambition in 2027 — a position that now appears to have been abandoned.
In a similar vein, Prince Lekan Adewoye, an aspirant for the Kwara South Senatorial seat, was reportedly affected by a withdrawal from prior political understanding.
The ripple effects of such actions have extended across the political space, with the two members of the Kwara State House of Assembly from Offa also said to have had their own experiences before eventually distancing themselves.
Questions have also been raised about his political alignment with Hon. Teslim Sanni Aba Balogun, another aspirant in the same House of Representatives race, leaving observers to wonder about the underlying motivations.
Beyond these instances, there is also the issue of political reach and acceptability. Effective representation begins with the ability to consult widely, build trust, and carry people along. Yet, Hon. Whyte is widely perceived as lacking the required personality and acceptance to effectively engage constituents across the three local government areas. During the last Local Government elections, he was reportedly advised to stay away from consultations and visitations, as his presence could hinder meaningful discussions.
Many stakeholders, it is said, were reluctant to engage due to past experiences, raising serious concerns about his capacity to unify and lead.
It also appears that his ambition may be anchored on the assumption that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq might impose him as the party’s candidate. However, such expectations may be misplaced. The Governor has consistently demonstrated a different leadership style — one rooted in fairness, inclusiveness, and respect for the will of the people. More importantly, he has consistently maintained his commitment to ensuring that Kwara North produces his successor, and he has shown clear dedication to that promise.
This conversation is not about personal attacks. It is about accountability, memory, and responsibility. The people of Ifelodun, Offa, and Oyun are known for their enlightenment and strong political awareness.
Leadership at the federal level demands more than influence — it requires trust, credibility, and a consistent record of honoring commitments.
As the 2027 elections approach, constituents must look beyond rhetoric and carefully examine track records. We must ask ourselves difficult but necessary questions.
Can we afford to entrust our future to a leadership clouded by recurring doubts? Can we ignore patterns that have raised concerns time and again?
The answer should guide our decision.
Our constituency deserves leadership built on integrity, not uncertainty. And this is the moment to insist on that standard.
