Lagos State needs a Financial Genius by Dr. Temitope Babalola, a Retired Medical Doctor

Earlier today, I received a call from one of my granddaughters. She’s studying to be a doctor at a university in Texas, and she wanted to talk about the recent U.S. election. Disappointed with the results, she was grappling with the reality of Donald Trump’s win. As we spoke, she asked a question that resonated deeply with me: Why do the worst people seem to keep winning political office?

Her observation felt painfully familiar, not only within American politics but around the world. It often appears that the more unscrupulous, corrupt, and power-hungry someone is, the more likely they are to succeed in the political arena. While I’m not American and don’t have much to say about the political landscape there, I’ve spent enough time observing politics to understand the factors that propel these individuals to power.

For one, most people simply want to live their lives without being embroiled in the chaos of politics. They desire stability, to care for their families, and to enjoy the fruits of their labor. Politics, with all its messiness, doesn’t naturally attract those who want the best for the general populace. It often draws in individuals willing to go to any lengths to achieve power.

In addition, most people would rather focus on their immediate lives and let others handle politics. This widespread apathy creates a vacuum—one that those desperate for power are only too eager to fill. It’s this unfortunate combination—disinterest among the capable and ambition among the less scrupulous—that results in the “worst” people taking office.

Reflecting on this, I couldn’t help but draw a parallel to Lagos politics. Recently, I read an article speculating about the upcoming governorship race, highlighting potential contenders: Seyi Tinubu, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, and Senator Tokunbo Abiru.

As a Lagosian, born and raised here, I have interacted closely with all three gentlemen. Seyi Tinubu is a capable young man who has leveraged his fortunate position as the son of the influential President Bola Tinubu to build wealth and influence for himself. Similarly, Hamzat has been a mainstay of Lagos politics and has built a reputation for competence and pragmatism as the deputy to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. However, from my perspective and that of any objective observer, Tokunbo Abiru stands head and shoulders above the other two men in terms of experience and competence.

Tokunbo Abiru’s career is built on a foundation of real-world accomplishments. A proper son of Lagos who attended Lagos public schools before going abroad for his post graduate studies, Abiru’s roots in this state run deep. His career has spanned top positions in finance, including as the former Commissioner of Finance for Lagos and as managing director of major banks. His financial expertise is unparalleled, and if there’s one thing Lagos needs, it’s a financial genius who can grow the economy and put more money in people’s pockets.

Lagos is a unique state with vast potential, but unlocking that potential requires more than just popularity or political connections—it requires competence. And if we’re honest, the responsibilities Tokunbo has handled in his career—from overseeing state finances to managing large organizations—demonstrate that he’s the only candidate with a proven track record of economic leadership.

So, why might he not get the chance? This goes back to the harsh reality my granddaughter and I discussed: the best candidates don’t always rise to the top in politics. It’s often the most aggressive, well-connected, or cunning who do.

As I told my granddaughter, though, we can’t afford to give up hope. If we do, we’re essentially ceding power to those who are least deserving. I encouraged her, and I would encourage anyone reading this, to consider getting involved in politics. We cannot let apathy be our response. As Plato once said, "The punishment that the wise suffer who refuse to take part in government is to live under the rule of worse men."

I believe we should do all we can to support leaders who can truly make a difference, and I hope that Tokunbo Abiru considers running for governor of Lagos. If we are serious about transforming Lagos, we need someone with the expertise to steer our economy forward. It’s time we come together to back the best among us and work toward a brighter future for Lagos.

Let’s not lose hope. Let’s remain engaged, so we can help guide our communities and our cities toward a better tomorrow.

"Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed here are those of the author, Dr. Temitope Babalola, a retired medical doctor and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Legit.ng."

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Source: Legit.ng