By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
The Oyo State gubernatorial hopeful on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has emphasised that leadership must be rooted in trust, responsibility and fear of God, declaring that his long years of philanthropy have prepared him for higher service in government.
Ajadi made this known on Thursday, March 12, 2026, while speaking with journalists after attending a Ramadan public lecture delivered by the Special Guest of Honour, Khalifa Qozeem Ajisafe Akilapa, at Crest 91.1 FM Radio House, Olodo, along Iwo Road in Ibadan.
According to Ajadi, leadership remains a sacred trust that must be handled with sincerity and accountability, stressing that his desire to seek political office is driven by his passion to serve humanity on a larger scale.
“I have been involved in philanthropic activities for many years because I believe in giving back to society. However, governmental power will give me a broader opportunity to positively impact more lives and strengthen the welfare of our people,” Ajadi said.
He added that his upbringing played a significant role in shaping his sense of responsibility to society.
“My father taught me the importance of being faithful, honest and responsible to the community. Those values have guided my relationship with people and my commitment to humanitarian service,” he stated.
Ajadi also commended the administration of Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, noting that the governor has made notable contributions to the development of the state.
“Governor Seyi Makinde has done well in many areas of governance. Our intention is to build on the foundation he has laid and take Oyo State to greater heights,” he added.
Speaking on national politics, Ajadi expressed optimism that the internal disagreements within the PDP would soon be resolved, assuring party supporters that ongoing reconciliation efforts by party leaders would reposition the party for victory.
“The crisis within our party is being addressed through dialogue and reconciliation meetings. I am confident that the PDP will come out stronger and win elective positions in the 2027 general elections,” he said.
Earlier in his lecture titled “Between Influence and Amanah: Reflecting on the State of Islamic Leadership in Nigeria,” Khalifa Qozeem Ajisafe Akilapa stressed the need for citizens to critically examine the character and integrity of those seeking leadership positions.
He noted that leadership in Islam is built on Amanah (trust), describing it as a moral burden that demands accountability before God and the people.
“It is very important for citizens to know the character of those contesting for leadership positions. Leadership is not just about popularity or influence; it is about Amanah — a trust that will be accounted for before Allah,” Akilapa said.
The Islamic scholar explained that Amanah encompasses trustworthiness, responsibility and moral uprightness, adding that leaders must always remember that power is a temporary privilege.
“Amanah means trust, responsibility and moral integrity. A true leader must be reliable, must fulfil his responsibilities sincerely and must do what is right even when nobody is watching,” he explained.
Akilapa further outlined key qualities that should define any elected leader, including Taqwa (God-consciousness), justice, truthfulness, compassion for the people and sincerity of purpose.
“One of the most important qualities of a leader is Taqwa — the fear of God. When a leader has Taqwa, such a person will naturally be just, truthful, sincere and compassionate towards the needs of the people,” he noted.
He added that justice remains the foundation of stable governance, warning that societies where justice is compromised often experience instability and loss of public trust.
“Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done. Leaders must be truthful and emotionally sensitive to the plight of their followers. Without sincerity, leadership becomes self-service instead of public service,” he said.
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The lecture attracted media practitioners, Islamic scholars, political stakeholders and members of the public who described the discussion as timely, particularly as political activities gradually build up toward the 2027 general elections.
Observers at the event noted that the discussion on ethical leadership and accountability reflects the growing public demand for leaders who combine competence with integrity and moral discipline.
