By: Ajao Stephen
There is a reward for every good deed, just as actions, whether positive or negative, ultimately attract their consequences. In public life, genuine relationships, humility, generosity and consistent service to humanity often become enduring assets. These qualities may also prove politically significant as Oyo State gradually approaches the 2027 governorship election.
For the Allied People’s Movement (APM), the political combination of its governorship candidate, Honourable Bimbo Adekambi, and his running mate, Engineer Muftau Open Salau, presents an interesting proposition. Beyond their political ambitions, both men have cultivated reputations associated with humility, accessibility, respect for traditional institutions and responsiveness to grassroots concerns.
In Ogbomosoland, however, the political profile of Engineer Salau appears particularly significant. His longstanding relationship with traditional rulers, community leaders, religious institutions and ordinary residents has continued to attract attention across the five local government areas of the zone.
Popularly regarded as a son of the elders, Salau is known for maintaining cordial relationships with traditional rulers and chiefs, not merely through ceremonial visits but also through social interactions and contributions to community development. His relationship with the traditional institution is therefore an important dimension of his growing political profile.
The reaction of traditional rulers across Ogbomosoland following his emergence as APM’s Deputy Governorship Candidate was particularly noteworthy.
Receiving Salau at his palace, the Soun of Ogbomosoland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III, expressed profound confidence in him, describing his emergence as a positive development for Ogbomoso.
The monarch described Salau as a respected palace chief and an adorable son in whom he was well pleased. He also encouraged his emergence, expressing confidence in his capacity to contribute meaningfully to the development of Ogbomoso and Oyo State.
Drawing a comparison with the late former governor, Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala, Oba Ghandi expressed optimism that Salau could equally distinguish himself through purposeful leadership and meaningful contributions to society.
Equally significant was the endorsement of the Alápà of Òkín Àpà Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba Professor John Akintola, who described Salau as a worthy ambassador of his birthplace.
The monarch highlighted several contributions attributed to Salau, including the development of an ultra-modern Destination Hotel, support for the proposed Alápà University project, and his involvement in efforts to secure the necessary university approval from the National Universities Commission (NUC).
Other contributions mentioned included substantial financial and logistical assistance towards the construction of the Òkín Àpà Magistrate Court, significant donations towards the development of the community palace, the provision of a transformer serving the kingdom and support for an ongoing radio station project in Ogbomoso.
His annual provision of food supplies during Ramadan for Muslim faithful in Òkín Àpà and Ogbomoso was also highlighted.
Oba Akintola particularly described Salau as a quiet philanthropist, a lover of education and a man whose commitments are reflected in practical actions rather than publicity. He also recalled his contributions to the recent Ogbomoso Education Summit at the Great Hall of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology.
Beyond Ogbomoso, Salau has received commendations from other prominent traditional rulers. The Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, His Royal Majesty, Oba Francis Olusola Alao, described him as upright, generous and responsible. The monarch expressed optimism that the combination of Salau and Adekambi, whom he also described as a technocrat, could attract investment and stimulate economic development in Oyo State.
Similarly, the Onpetu of Ijeru, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Sunday Olaaapo Oyediran, acknowledged Salau as a worthy son deserving of recognition.
He has also received royal blessings and commendations from the Oloko of Oko, Aranyin of Iranyin, Olobada of Obada, Alajaawa of Ajaawa, Oloolo of Oolo and other traditional rulers across Ogbomosoland.
These relationships underscore an important political reality: traditional institutions remain influential stakeholders in community mobilisation, social cohesion and grassroots engagement.
As the 2027 governorship election approaches, APM may find Salau’s established community relationships particularly valuable in Ogbomosoland. Nevertheless, royal goodwill must translate into meaningful grassroots engagement and ultimately earn the confidence of voters.
Ultimately, political success is not determined by titles, endorsements or personal relationships alone. It depends on credibility, ideas, character, accessibility and the capacity to deliver on promises.
For Engineer Muftau Open Salau, the goodwill reportedly cultivated over the years provides a foundation upon which APM can build its political appeal across Ogbomosoland and beyond.
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