Opinion!Obaseki, Please, Grow Up! by Olawale Olaleye

In truth, the physiognomy of a man should not be the yardstick for his intelligence. There are simpletons with imposing presence and physique. Yet, there are persons with diminutive frames, who are embodiments of intelligence.

What happened on Sunday in Edo State at a service to commemorate the 32 years of the creation of the state and also today, at yet another state function, clearly attested to the claim above.

First, the story was that the Deputy Governor of the State, Philip Shaibu, was not extended an invitation to be at such a crucial state function held on Sunday. That’s the first strike against Governor Godwin Obaseki. It is nothing but petty.

Two, after the man had put aside your ignoble fireworks to honour you as his boss, he was prevented by a mere security aide from getting any close. An elected deputy governor? How you guys take democracy for granted is to say the least unbelievable.

Some may say, “Oh, yes, serves him right. After all, he betrayed his brother and benefactor to remain where he is,” but that would not have addressed the crux of the matter. It is completely extraneous to the spirit of this case, given the immaturity displayed by Obaseki.

How he watched his deputy being disrespected by his security aide remains incomprehensible, knowing it should not be about the person of the deputy governor but the office he occupies. Whatever political differences they had should not have been played up so disgracefully that it turned out the joke was on Obaseki himself.

Showing presence in office and living up to billings should not be about setting up press conferences and slinging muds at the federal government, each time it is convenient, when indeed you lack the ‘common sense’ to put your own house in order.

With your history of existential betrayal and poor capacity at managing relationships, very few people should actually share space with your ilk. Yet, providence has put you where you are today, but you’re still unable to rise above your conceited self since your thought process is permanently in disagreement with your physical growth.

Your demeanor on Sunday was resentful, a blight on your office and a decimation of the badge you undeservedly adorn: His Excellency. But one thing is certain, though: no matter how much you put into the growth and development of the state, no one will remember any of them, but this ugly turn of events, if not halted immediately.

Choose wisely and please, grow up, Mr. Governor!

Olawale Olaleye