By Sulaiman Aisha
For years, the people of Kwara State have yearned for a fresh breath in governance, well before the winds of change swept through the political landscape in 2019. The “Otoge” movement, a clarion call for transformation, resonated deeply with citizens, offering hope for a new era of accountability and progress. Yet, as the dust settled and new leaders emerged, the true test of their commitment to effective representation began.
In 2019, the Offa/Oyun/Ifelodun constituency, like many others across the state, embraced this spirit of change with open arms. Constituents eagerly welcomed their new legislator, Hon. Ismail Tijani, with high hopes and optimistic expectations. A youthful figure in his mid-thirties, Tijani was seen as a beacon of hope, a voice of the people who would champion their interests and advocate for good governance.
However, as the tenure unfolded, disillusionment began to set in. Despite the initial enthusiasm and promises of transformative leadership, many constituents found themselves grappling with a harsh reality. While Tijani secured a second term in office, his performance fell short of expectations, particularly when compared to his peers in the Kwara State legislature.
One of the primary grievances voiced by constituents was the perceived disconnect between Tijani and the grassroots. Despite calls for greater engagement and accessibility, the legislator seemed to remain entrenched within his inner circle, failing to bridge the gap between himself and the people he was elected to serve.
Moreover, concerns were raised regarding the efficacy of Tijani’s representation. While empowerment initiatives were touted, they were often perceived as half-hearted and lacking in tangible results. Many constituents lamented the absence of effective action and solutions to address their pressing needs and concerns.
In the face of mounting dissatisfaction, calls for accountability grew louder. Constituents urged Tijani to heed their pleas, to step out from the shadows of complacency, and to confront the realities on the ground. However, these appeals fell on deaf ears, as the legislator appeared reluctant to acknowledge the gravity of the situation.
Now, as the electoral cycle has ended, the people of Offa/Oyun/Ifelodun find themselves at a crossroads.
Disillusioned by broken promises and unfulfilled expectations, they are left with a sobering realization: it is time to reclaim their power and demand a change.
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, constituents are resolved to exercise their democratic rights with greater discernment. They refuse to be swayed by hollow rhetoric or empty promises. Instead, they seek leaders who embody integrity, competence, and a genuine commitment to serving the public good.
In conclusion, the case of Hon. Ismail Tijani serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of accountability and transparency in governance. As citizens, it is our duty to hold our elected representatives to the highest standards of integrity and performance. Only then can we truly build a future that reflects the aspirations and ideals of all Kwara State residents.
She can be contacted via: @laraaisha40@gmail.com
