Former Minority Leader of the 7th Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Tunji Rafiu Adekunle, has issued a strong political and civic warning to politicians and other influential individuals in Saki, declaring that the town’s collective dignity must never be sacrificed for partisan interests, personal recognition or financial gratification.
Adekunle, in a statement personally signed by him and made available to a Korrectnews correspondent in Ibadan on Wednesday, expressed displeasure over what he described as an emerging pattern of deliberately portraying Saki negatively before outsiders in pursuit of cheap popularity, political relevance and personal benefits.
In a message that appears directed at those he believes are prioritising individual ambitions over communal interests, the former lawmaker declared unequivocally: “Saki is greater than any individual, political interest, or financial inducements.”
He argued that patriotism should not be measured by how loudly individuals condemn their homeland or how negatively they portray its circumstances, but by the sincerity of their contributions towards addressing its challenges and advancing its development.
Adekunle acknowledged that Saki has genuine developmental concerns, including infrastructure deficits, unemployment, inadequate social amenities and the need for greater government attention and investment.
However, he insisted that these challenges should provide grounds for constructive engagement and credible advocacy, not deliberate misrepresentation or attempts to present the town as a hopeless community.
He warned that deliberately exaggerating Saki’s weaknesses while suppressing its achievements and potentials amounts to a betrayal of collective trust.
The former legislator also raised concerns about the possible economic consequences of sustained negative narratives, arguing that investors, development partners and other external stakeholders could develop unfavourable perceptions of the town.
He maintained that the reputational consequences of such actions could outlive the political interests that inspired them, ultimately depriving future generations of opportunities.
Adekunle further warned that allowing personal ambition to consistently override collective responsibility could deepen divisions within Saki and weaken the unity required to pursue meaningful development.
Calling for a united front, he appealed to traditional rulers, politicians, community development associations, youth organisations, professionals and stakeholders in the diaspora to embrace a Saki-first philosophy.
He also warned that political disagreements should not become opportunities for outsiders to exploit divisions within the community.
Importantly, Adekunle clarified that defending Saki’s image does not mean shielding political leaders from criticism or encouraging silence in the face of wrongdoing.
He maintained that genuine grievances must be expressed, evidence of misconduct must be presented, and legitimate demands for development and accountability must continue to receive attention.
His position, however, was that criticism must be rooted in facts and directed towards solutions rather than becoming an instrument for personal attacks, misinformation or financial inducement.
“You can criticise the leadership of Saki without condemning Saki itself. You can disagree with its political direction without destroying its image. You can demand accountability without becoming an enemy of your own community,” he declared.
In what amounts to a direct appeal for political maturity and communal responsibility, the former Minority Leader urged Saki’s political class to understand that political offices, party affiliations and individual ambitions are temporary, but the town’s identity and heritage belong to generations past, present and future.
