By Olusegun Olusola
Sixty years is not merely a milestone in the journey of a man; it is an occasion to pause, reflect and celebrate a life of conviction, courage, service and principled commitment.
For Professor Abdulwahid Ajibola-OMOLUABI, attaining the age of 60 is a fitting moment to celebrate not only his accomplishments as an academic and community leader, but also his remarkable consistency in standing for what he believes is right.
As Professor Abdulwahid Ajibola-OMOLUABI clocks 60, one attribute that readily comes to mind is principled courage—the courage to speak when others are silent, to stand when others retreat and to pursue justice even when doing so may not necessarily be politically convenient.
His advocacy for equity, fairness and justice in the politics of Ogun State, particularly his support for the emergence of Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as YAYI, as the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate for the 2027 election provides a compelling illustration of this character.
His commitment has gone beyond mere expression of support. He actively participated in advocacy and grassroots mobilisation towards the realisation of the aspiration.
Indeed, he established and convened Team OMOLUABI for YAYI, as part of efforts to galvanise support for the YAYI 2027 project.
This commitment was not born out of convenience or political opportunism. It was anchored on a conviction that equity, fairness and justice must have a place in determining the political future of Ogun State.
When others hesitated, OMOLUABI stood firm
There was a period when many people, particularly from Egba and Ogun Central, were understandably skeptical about openly associating with the YAYI 2027 gubernatorial aspiration. The political terrain was uncertain, and many were reluctant to identify with an aspiration that was perceived by some as difficult to achieve.
But Professor Abdulwahid Ajibola-OMOLUABI stood his ground.
He did not merely express private sympathy. He shouted, clamoured and propagated the principle that the Yewa people should have their turn in the leadership of Ogun State.
His oft-repeated declaration—“YEWA lokan, YAYI lo ma se!”—became a powerful expression of his belief in rotational equity and fairness.
He consistently argued that political leadership should reflect the principle of justice and inclusiveness, and that the Yewa people deserved a fair opportunity to produce the next governor of the state.
That position required conviction, especially at a time when many were unwilling to associate publicly with the aspiration.
But OMOLUABI remained steadfast.
And today, history is recording those efforts.
The advocacy, public statements, media interventions and activities surrounding the campaign are verifiable. They have appeared in both electronic and print media over the years. As the popular saying goes, “the internet does not forget.”
The journey has not always been easy. Political aspirations of this magnitude inevitably generate disagreements, doubts and competing interests. But the strength of a cause is often tested by the willingness of its advocates to remain committed when the destination is still far away.
At 60, therefore, Professor Abdulwahid Ajibola-OMOLUABI deserves commendation not simply for reaching the golden milestone, but for the values that have characterised his public engagement.
He has shown that age can bring not only experience but also greater clarity of conviction.
His advocacy for Yewa’s political aspiration has been particularly significant because it was rooted in a principle larger than an individual political ambition. His message has consistently been about equity, fairness and justice.
That is why his declaration, “YEWA lokan, YAYI lo ma se!”, resonates beyond a slogan. For him, it represents a political philosophy: that every section of Ogun State deserves a sense of belonging and a fair opportunity to participate in the leadership of the state.
Looking towards 2027
As we celebrate Professor Abdulwahid Ajibola-OMOLUABI at 60, it is also appropriate to look ahead.
May the struggles, advocacy and mobilisation of the past three years ultimately translate into the desired political reality in 2027.
May the aspiration for Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola-YAYI to emerge as the Executive Governor of Ogun State come to total reality and complete fruition, by the grace of Almighty God and through the democratic choice of the people of Ogun State.
And when that historic moment comes, may Professor Abdulwahid Ajibola-OMOLUABI have a notable presence and worthy participation in the YAYI administration and government, contributing his intellect, experience and commitment to the development of Ogun State.
That, perhaps, would be one of the most satisfying outcomes of a journey that began with a simple but profound principle: equity, fairness and justice.
Professor Abdulwahid Ajibola-OMOLUABI, at 60, your voice has been heard. Your position has been documented. Your advocacy has been witnessed.
May the years ahead bring you greater wisdom, sound health, fulfilment and opportunities for even greater service to humanity.
Happy 60th Birthday, Professor Abdulwahid Ajibola-OMOLUABI.
May OMOLUABI at 60 witness the fulfilment of the YAYI dream in 2027.
*YEWA lokan! YAYI lo ma se!*
Many happy returns.
*Olusegun Olusola writes from Igbore, Abeokuta*