Hon. Akinjide Kazeem Akinola: A Gentle Giant of Progressive Politics and Selfless Service
By Alhaji (Hon) Maruf Oladeji
In the ever-evolving political landscape of Oyo State, few names resonate with sincerity, sacrifice, and people-centered leadership like Hon. Akinjide Kazeem Akinola. A proud native of Ibadan, Oyo State, and a son of Ona-Ara Local Government, Hon. Akinola has consistently demonstrated that politics can still be guided by conscience, loyalty, and genuine service to humanity.
His aspiration to represent the good people of Egbeda/Ona-Ara Federal Constituency at the National Assembly is rooted not in ambition alone, but in a lifelong commitment to grassroots development and inclusive governance. During the 2022/2023 electoral cycle, Hon. Akinola clearly won his party’s primary election. However, circumstances beyond the will of the people—marked by the involvement of certain state-level leadership interests—altered the outcome.
It is important to state, without equivocation, that the eventual candidate, Akin Alabi, did not defeat Hon. Akinola on the grounds of superior political influence or grassroots strength. Rather, in a rare show of discipline and respect for party hierarchy, Hon. Akinola listened to the collective counsel of leaders across Egbeda and Ona-Ara, who encouraged a strategic move to the Accord Party. True to his gentlemanly nature, he accepted the ticket and contested honorably, even though the odds were steep.
Following the 2023 general elections, many politicians would have retreated or grown bitter. Hon. Akinjide Kazeem Akinola chose a higher road. He returned home, rebuilt bridges, and led a massive political realignment back to the All Progressives Congress (APC). His return was not symbolic; it was impactful. Hundreds of loyal supporters, and even members of other political parties, followed him—drawn not by propaganda, but by the credibility of his character and the consistency of his generosity.
Hon. Akinola’s philanthropy speaks louder than campaign slogans. Across the length and breadth of Egbeda/Ona-Ara Federal Constituency, his fingerprints of compassion are evident:
Scholarships for numerous students in higher institutions
Sponsorship and support for young people pursuing education and opportunities abroad
“Back to School” initiatives for secondary school students
Borehole projects and “Water for All” schemes bringing relief to underserved communities
These interventions are not seasonal or politically motivated; they are continuous expressions of a leader who believes that governance begins with service, even without holding office.
Today, Hon. Akinjide Kazeem Akinola remains unwavering in his commitment to the growth and stability of the APC and the progress of Oyo State. He is ever ready to support the party at all levels—strategically, morally, and materially—because he understands that strong parties are built by loyal men, not fair-weather politicians.
In Hon. Akinola, the people see a bridge between principle and pragmatism, between loyalty and leadership, between today’s challenges and tomorrow’s promise. He represents a refreshing model of politics driven by humility, patience, and an unshakeable belief in the power of the people.
As the future beckons, one truth stands clear: leaders like Hon. Akinjide Kazeem Akinola do not fade—they rise, stronger, wiser, and more determined to serve.
