By Olumide Akinrinlola

Oh, what a delightful spectacle we have here! Once again, Tunji-Ojo graces the headlines, and it seems he can’t do anything right in the eyes of some critics.

Yesterday, he generously distributed 5,000 bags of 50kg rice and a whopping N150 million across 203 wards in Ondo State to help the people celebrate Christmas. But, of course, that’s just him showing off his “witchcraft,” isn’t it?

Today, we learn that the residents of Erusu Akoko have been singing his praises for restoring electricity after nearly three months of total blackout—a miraculous feat just in time for Christmas celebrations. Yet, somehow, I’m still told that Progressives like us shouldn’t be drawn to him. Truly, it’s baffling!

Let’s not forget Senator Natasha Akpoti, who, while not even from Ondo State, received my weekly accolades for her impressive contributions. But by all means, let’s ignore the good works of those who actually strive to improve the lives of the people. After all, it’s much easier to dismiss someone who is making a difference than to acknowledge the positive impact they have.

Heavenly Angels must be rejoicing over Tunji-Ojo’s efforts! Do you really think God places individuals in positions of power just to decorate government houses? Our real issue in Nigeria is leadership, and sadly, some voters are complicit in this mess. They prioritise a quick buck over genuine leaders by selling their votes, which only leads to the wrong people being elected.

If we could just get it right by choosing the right leaders, we could stand shoulder to shoulder with the Western world, given the abundant resources God has blessed us with. Yet here we are, where some leaders consider timely salary payments as monumental achievements. Honestly, it makes my blood boil to see supposedly educated people celebrating the disbursement of salaries and gratuities as though it’s a remarkable feat. How can someone’s legal entitlement be viewed as a giveaway? It’s baffling!

I may ruffle a few feathers with this, but let’s be real: it’s nothing short of witchcraft to despise Tunji-Ojo or anyone else striving to transform lives and foster development. As children of God, we must continue to uplift those doing good, regardless of their origins. After all, it’s the right thing to do!

Olumide Akinrinlola, Publisher of Starnews NG, writes from Canada