EGBETOKUN @ 59, STILL SOARING

EGBETOKUN @ 59, STILL SOARING

                By: Udofia Elijah 

     write from Laderin, Abeokuta.

Rt. Hon. Samson Tunji Egbetokun is a man who cannot be mistaken, even in a crowd. Apart from his God-given towering physical appearance, he is unassuming and a leader par excellence.

From a humble background, the former Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly has shown that hard work, perseverance and the fear of God can go a long way in shaping one’s destiny, creating a pathway to sit and dine with princes and kings.

One thing that no one can take away from this astute politician is that he has used his position and connections to inspire action, empower others, and focus on growth rather than personal glory.

For a man who started his early career as Secretary to the Obafemi-Owode Local Government, Tunji Egbetokun climbed the political ladder to become the Senior Special Adviser to Governor Ibikunle Amosun on Political and Governmental Affairs from 2011 to 2014, and also served as Senior Special Adviser on Political Affairs under the administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun.

Perhaps, one of the qualities that endeared him to the people is his fearlessness and ability to stand for and defend the truth. This, he displayed during his tenure as Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly.

He was noted for seeking the independence of the Assembly by ensuring that the legislative arm of government was not reduced to a rubber stamp of the Executive.

He also worked towards grassroots-focused laws, where bills were rooted in fiscal discipline, transparency and people-centred governance. Just as he advocated adherence to constitutional procedures and judicial reforms aimed at creating a justice system that is fair and free from political influence.

Described by many as an intellectual with academic brilliance, Egbetokun is not only a mentor but also a shining example to many younger men and women who aspire to greatness in life.

He remains an iroko tree in the Egba political landscape and, indeed, in Ogun State, and is still active in the political leadership of the Ogun State APC.

The great songwriter, Gift Gugu Mona, said, “A leader does not seek applause; his reward lies in the happiness of those around him. His goodness is not a facade; it is imprinted into the fabric of his being—a good man with a great spirit.” This aptly describes the man, Tunji Egbetokun, who turned 59 on the 10th of September.

For a man who has recorded modest achievements in his almost six decades on earth, one cannot agree less with Governor Abiodun, who said the celebrant’s birthday “provides another opportunity to recognise your distinguished years of public service and your contributions to the growth, development and progress of our dear State. Your experience, dedication and commitment to service have earned you the respect of many within and beyond Ogun State.”