Hon. Nafiu Olawale Abimbola, Secretary to Imeko-Afon Local Government, has responded to remarks by Senator Iyabo Obasanjo Bello, stressing that Ogun West is seeking equity, not sympathy, in its bid to produce a governor.

In a statement via his social media on Wednesday, Abimbola described the suggestion that Ogun West “needs to be organized” before producing leadership as condescending and misleading. He emphasized that the district is not an orphan seeking guardianship, but a community of accomplished professionals, seasoned politicians, technocrats, entrepreneurs, and patriotic citizens capable of leading Ogun State.

“The expression ‘we have heard their cry’ comes across as condescending,” Abimbola said. “Ogun West is not crying for sympathy. It is asserting a legitimate, long-standing aspiration rooted in fairness. After more than five decades without producing a governor, this is not emotional or accidental, it is principled.”

He added that leadership is not created by external intervention but emerges from competence, character, credibility, and the confidence of the people. “The fact that Ogun West has not produced a governor is not evidence of incapacity; it reflects political realities over time. Equity is not charity. Justice is not a favour to be deferred,” he said.

Abimbola also commended Ogun West leaders, including Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, Hon. Gboyega Nasir Isiaka, and Hon. Isiaq Abiodun Akinlade, for their service, grassroots connection, and political experience. “These are credible leaders who do not need to be ‘built’ or validated by anyone. Their records speak for themselves,” he added.

On political support, he warned that backing Ogun West only after personal ambitions are secured does not uphold the principle of equity. “The focus must be fairness for the present generation, not promises tied to individual victory,” Abimbola said.

He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to party unity and disciplined engagement, while cautioning that peace should not be mistaken for passivity. “Ogun West does not seek sympathy. Ogun West seeks equity. We are ready. We are capable. And we will continue to advocate respectfully, confidently, and firmly for a governor of Ogun West extraction,” he said.