By: Femi Emmanuel
It is high time Oyo State embraced a rotational system of governance, considering the state’s diverse and heterogeneous population. While this diversity should be a collective strength, it has, over the years, tilted political power disproportionately in favour of the Ibadan Zone—the state capital and the most populous city in Oyo State, as well as one of the largest cities in West Africa.
The large population of Ibadan has consistently played a decisive role in determining the outcome of gubernatorial elections in the state. Since the creation of Oyo State, Ibadan indigenes have largely benefited from this demographic advantage, with the Government House in Agodi being predominantly occupied by individuals from the Ibadan Zone. This trend has persisted despite the fact that Oyo State is politically structured into five distinct zones: Ibadan, Ogbomoso, Oke-Ogun, Ibarapa, and Oyo.
Ideally, the governorship of Oyo State ought to be rotational among these five zones to reflect fairness, inclusion, and equity. However, the continuous dominance of the Ibadan Zone has been perceived by many political observers and stakeholders as an act of injustice and political selfishness against other zones. This imbalance has generated discontent, particularly among zones that feel perpetually excluded from the highest political office in the state.
The argument that Ibadan should continue to produce governors solely because of its population undermines the collective ownership of Oyo State. The state belongs to all its indigenes, and leadership is a constitutional right open to qualified citizens from every zone. Persistent exclusion of other zones not only weakens democratic ideals but also deprives capable and credible indigenes from contributing to the leadership and development of the state.
Furthermore, the leadership of Oyo State should be based on competence, credibility, and indigenous representation across all zones—not monopolized by one geographical area. Allowing a single zone to perpetually control political power is both undemocratic and unconstitutional. It contradicts the principles of fairness, equity, and shared responsibility that underpin true federalism and democratic governance.
It is therefore imperative for stakeholders, political leaders, and opinion shapers in Oyo State to confront this long-standing imbalance. The current static pattern of governance centered in Ibadan must give way to a rotational arrangement that ensures equal participation of qualified indigenes from all zones in the governance of the state.
A well-structured rotational system of governance would help address the inequalities and irregularities that have deeply permeated Oyo State politics. It would correct the recurring pattern of electoral outcomes that consistently favour one zone and restore confidence in the political process among marginalized regions.
Beyond addressing injustice, rotational governance would promote unity, mutual respect, and a sense of belonging among all Oyo State indigenes. It would also reinforce Oyo State’s reputation as a pace-setter in progressive politics, potentially serving as a model for other states in Nigeria.
If carefully considered and properly implemented, a rotational system of governance will accelerate development across all five geopolitical zones, reduce political tension, and discourage disunity. Ultimately, it will ensure that governance in Oyo State truly reflects the collective will, diversity, and shared destiny of its people.
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