THE air in Ekiti North Federal Constituency II (comprising Ido/Osi, Moba, and Ilejemeje Local Governments) is thick with nostalgia and a fervent desire for the return of a true servant-leader: Hon. Ibrahim Kunle Olarewaju (IBO).
Though a manipulation of the political process led to his momentary exit from the House of Representatives after the 2023 election, his service trajectory and immediate elevation by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are compelling testimonies to a character that remains indispensable to his people.
Hon. Ibrahim Kunle Olarewaju is widely recognized not just as a politician, but as a responsible father, a principled public servant, and a committed philanthropist. His good character is evident in his inclusive approach to politics and his unwavering commitment to his constituents.
He is A Responsible Father and Role Model: IBO understands that leadership begins at home. His dedication to his family mirrors his commitment to the collective welfare of the community, setting a strong moral and ethical standard for the youth in the constituency.
He is A Quintessential Philanthropist:
Throughout his tenure and even now, his impact has transcended legislative duties. He has actively engaged in extensive empowerment programmes, including the provision of 200 Brand New Laptops and essential training for youths and teachers in Ekiti State, demonstrating a deep-seated belief in human capital development and the “Renewed Hope” agenda.
Hon. Olarewaju’s solid academic background forms the bedrock of his pragmatic approach to governance. As an accomplished lawyer (Barr.), he brings a meticulous, constitutional, and law-abiding perspective to every challenge.
During his time representing the constituency in the 9th National Assembly, he distinguished himself as a lawmaker with substance, serving meritoriously as the Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Agricultural Production and Services. Notably, he ranked high among Ekiti State’s federal lawmakers in terms of legislative productivity, sponsoring a significant number of bills. This proven capacity to contribute meaningfully to lawmaking is precisely what Ekiti North II is missing.
Justifying His Appointment
The most powerful justification for Hon. Olarewaju’s return lies in the immediate recognition of his value by the highest office in the land. Following the 2023 election, and despite the political maneuvering that led to his loss, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu immediately appointed him as the Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters.
This swift appointment was not a consolation prize; it was a strategic move rooted in necessity and trust. As noted by the Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, the appointment recognized IBO’s “steadfastness, political maturity and high level integrity,” and the President’s need for an experienced, decent, and pragmatic politician to serve as the critical liaison between the Presidency and the House of Representatives. This immediate elevation confirms that the loss in the constituency was a political setback, not a repudiation of his competence or character. The President knows his value; the constituency should reclaim it.
The fact remains: Hon. Ibrahim Kunle Olarewaju has established a track record of performance, accessibility, and developmental politics that resonates deeply with the people of Ido/Osi, Moba, and Ilejemeje. The missing link in the current representation is the dedicated and effective leadership that he provides.
IBO is A Champion of Empowerment: His consistent empowerment drives, even while serving in a federal appointment, prove that his connection to the grassroots is unwavering.
IBO is A Bridge to the Presidency: His current role has positioned him closer to the apex of power, giving him unparalleled access and influence to attract Federal projects and opportunities back to the constituency, a key advantage Ekiti North II should not forfeit.
Hon. Ibrahim Kunle Olarewaju’s return to the House of Representatives is not merely a political ambition; it is the logical next step for a constituency that deserves the very best of representation. It is time for the people to harness his high-level experience, political sagacity, and presidential trust to secure a brighter future.
Moses Owoyemi
Writes From Ado-Ekiti