There is a saying that has gained remarkable traction in the political conversations of Ogun West in recent times: “One of us is better than none of us.”
At first hearing, the phrase may appear simple, even casual. Yet beneath its simplicity lies a profound political reality that resonates deeply with many people across Yewaland and, indeed, Ogun State as a whole.
For decades, the people of Ogun West have played a significant role in the growth and development of Ogun State. They have contributed immensely to the state’s economy, politics, culture, and social advancement. Despite these contributions, many sons and daughters of Yewaland have often felt that when critical political decisions are made, their zone remains on the margins of power.
This sentiment has never been rooted in bitterness or entitlement. Rather, it reflects a natural yearning for inclusion. Every community desires representation. Every people seek a voice at the table where decisions affecting their future are made. Such aspirations are neither unusual nor unreasonable; they are fundamental to democratic governance.
It is against this backdrop that the emergence of Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, has generated widespread interest and enthusiasm across Ogun West. To many, his political rise represents far more than the success of an individual. It symbolizes the possibility of greater relevance and representation for a region that has long sought a stronger place within the leadership structure of Ogun State.
Politics, after all, is often about access, influence, and the ability to attract opportunities. When a community produces a leader who commands respect and attention within the political establishment, its prospects for development naturally improve. Such a leader becomes a bridge between government and the people—a conduit through which aspirations can be articulated and pursued.
This is where Senator Adeola’s story resonates strongly with many in Ogun West.
Over the years, he has cultivated a reputation as a grassroots politician who maintains close ties with ordinary citizens. Through empowerment programmes, educational support initiatives, infrastructure projects, and constituency interventions, he has built a political presence that extends far beyond election cycles.
Whether one agrees with his politics or not, it is difficult to ignore his growing influence within Ogun State and beyond. Today, his name features prominently in discussions about the future of the state and the role Ogun West may play in shaping that future.
For his supporters, therefore, the argument is straightforward: if Ogun West has produced a leader with the experience, visibility, network, and political capacity to compete at the highest level, why should the region not rally behind him? Why should legitimate aspirations be weakened by internal divisions when unity can amplify a collective voice?
Yet this conversation should not be viewed solely through the lens of Ogun West. It is equally relevant to the people of Ogun Central and Ogun East. The issue before the state is not merely about who occupies the Government House next; it is about the kind of political culture Ogun State wishes to build for future generations.
Since the creation of Ogun State, the governorship has largely rotated between Ogun Central and Ogun East. Both regions have produced governors and enjoyed the opportunity to occupy the state’s highest political office. Ogun West, despite its population, economic importance, strategic location, and enduring contributions to the state’s progress, is yet to produce a governor.
For this reason, many believe that supporting Ogun West at this moment transcends politics. It is a matter of justice, fairness, and equity.
When a section of a state consistently feels excluded from its highest leadership position, a sense of political imbalance inevitably emerges. Conversely, when every zone is given a realistic opportunity to lead, it strengthens unity, deepens trust, and reinforces the belief that every citizen truly belongs.
Indeed, Ogun Central and Ogun East stand to gain from such an arrangement. Supporting Ogun West would send a powerful message that Ogun State remains one family in which every section matters. It would affirm that leadership is not the exclusive preserve of any district but a shared responsibility entrusted to all.
More importantly, it would help institutionalize a culture of political inclusiveness that future generations can sustain and build upon. Today, it may be Ogun West seeking understanding and support; tomorrow, another region may seek similar consideration. The strength of any democracy lies in its ability to accommodate diverse interests fairly and equitably.
The call, therefore, is not for sympathy but for partnership.
It is a call for the people of Ogun Central, Ogun East, and Ogun West to recognize their shared destiny and collective stake in the continued progress of the state. It is an appeal to rise above sectional interests and embrace a broader vision anchored on fairness, equity, and unity.
That is the true essence of the saying: “One of us is better than none of us.”
It does not advocate blind loyalty. It does not suggest that competence should be sacrificed on the altar of sentiment. Rather, it recognizes that when a qualified, experienced, and capable son of a region that has patiently awaited its turn emerges, supporting such a person becomes an investment in justice, stability, and social cohesion.
Today, many people in Ogun West see Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola as that rallying point. They see in him a platform through which the hopes, aspirations, and ambitions of the district can find meaningful expression. Whether those hopes ultimately translate into greater political achievements remains to be seen, but there is little doubt that he has become a symbol of possibility for many across the region.
As Ogun State approaches another defining moment in its political journey, it has a unique opportunity to strengthen the bonds that unite its people. By embracing fairness, encouraging inclusion, and ensuring that every region has a genuine sense of belonging, Ogun can continue to stand as a model of peaceful, progressive, and democratic politics.
That is why the message remains powerful and relevant today: One of us is better than none of us.
For many in Ogun West, it is more than a slogan. It is a call for recognition, inclusion, and partnership. For Ogun State as a whole, it serves as a reminder that when every region has a seat at the table, the entire state becomes stronger.
