Rt. Hon. Adesegun Abdel-Majid Adekoya, former Deputy Minority Leader in the Ninth Assembly, has expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s political direction, the state of journalism, and governance at all levels, warning that the nation has become increasingly unpredictable.
Adekoya, who holds the traditional title of Aremo Ebumawe of Ago-Iwoye,, spoke during an exclusive interview with newsmen, describing his experience as a principal officer of the House of Representatives as one that shaped his understanding of the country’s complexities.
He noted that only ten lawmakers serve as principal officers in the House and emphasized the weight of responsibility that accompanies the role.
“For anything to get to the chamber, the ten principal officers must first examine it. We ask: Will this bring unity? Should we allow it? Should we drop the motion? These are decisions we take every Monday before Tuesday plenary.”
He added that he remains the first Ijebu man to attain such a position in the federal legislature.
Says Trust in Journalism Has Declined
The former lawmaker lamented what he described as a decline in the credibility and independence of the Nigerian media.
“There is nothing like journalism again. Even when a reporter wants to publish, the editor may kill it, and even if the editor approves, the proprietor may stop it. We are disappointed.”
He revealed that he rarely grants interviews, saying he only agreed to speak out of respect for a personal friend.
Recounts Banking and Political Career
Adekoya traced his public journey to August 17, 1981, when he began working at the Nigeria Bank for Commerce and Industry in Lagos. In May 1988, he joined Eko International Bank at Tinubu, Lagos, where he served for 14 years.
A professional banker and member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers (KCIB), he described himself as a “bonafide PDP man,” recalling his involvement from the early days of the party.
According to him, he contested for the Chairmanship position of Kosofe Local Government under PDP in December 5, 1998.
He went on to serve as Personal Assistant to the Minister of State for Finance, and later, from 2003 to 2011, he was a Commissioner I, Local Government Service Commission, Ogun State.
“When you talk of local government administration in Ogun State—recruitment, promotion, transfer, pension—I can tell you the procedure,” he said.
Adekoya also served in various capacities in Shomolu and Kosofe local governments in Lagos, including as Supervisory Councillor for Health, Agriculture and Natural Resources, and later as Vice Chairman.
Critiques Buhari, Tinubu Administrations
The former lawmaker expressed disappointment with the Buhari administration, saying he had expected decisive action on corruption and national security.
On President Bola Tinubu, he acknowledged the former Lagos Governor’s record of bold reforms but questioned recent political constraints.
“Asiwaju took bold steps in Lagos. He even went to the Supreme Court to secure judgment for direct allocation to local governments. But now, he is being caged.”
He, however, said he remains open to any political structure capable of stabilizing the country.
“If Nigeria becoming fully APC will bring food and security, so be it.”
Nigeria Unpredictable, Needs Courageous Leadership
Adekoya warned that Nigeria’s problems will persist unless leaders act with urgency and conviction.
“This is a country you can never predict. When you cannot find your way, create another way. Why must we wait for America to bully us before we act?”
He urged political leaders to confront the country’s challenges boldly and prioritize the welfare of Nigerians.
