Leke Abejide: The Deserving Asiwaju, But Imperfect
By J.O. Abel-Ontop
In the heart of Yagbaland, a historic ceremony took place on December 29 2025 when Rt Hon Leke Abejide, the Member representing Yagba Federal Constituency, was conferred with the prestigious title of Asiwaju of Yagbaland. For many, the honour was a fitting recognition of a leader whose influence spans humanitarian outreach, community security and infrastructural development. Yet there were those who, perhaps envious of Abejides achievements or disappointed that the title did not go to them, questioned its significance. Some argued that his political footprint in the history of Yagba is modest, making the title seem too grand. Even so, while the accolade affirms his dedication, the realities of leadership reveal him as the deserving Asiwaju, even as natural critics focus on perceived imperfections.
A Title Earned Through Service
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Abejide had been earmarked for the Asiwaju of Yagba title as far back as October 2022 by the Chairmen of the three respective Yagba Federal Constituency Local Government Traditional Councils. However, the genuine intention behind this recognition became politicized and contested by those envious of his achievements. As a result, the official conferment was delayed until recently when the graded chiefs of Yagba convened to perform the ceremony in a more elaborate and timely manner.
Abejides rise to Asiwaju did not happen by accident. He had long held the title of Asiwaju of Alu and his leadership has been consistently demonstrated through tangible interventions for his constituents. These include the following
Payment of WAEC and NECO fees for students and provision of educational scholarships.
Annual yuletide relief valued at about one billion naira for widows and vulnerable families.
Distribution of SUVs to graded traditional chiefs across and beyond Yagba.
Empowerment of hundreds of Yagba indigenes with vehicles ranging from motorcycles, tricycles, trucks, buses and cars.
A recent pledge of ten million naira to each of the seventy one autonomous communities in his constituency and establishment of the Lion Squad to battle the persistent rural and national insecurity challenges.
Through these initiatives, Abejide has consistently turned promises into visible action. The conferment of Asiwaju is more than ceremonial, it is a recognition that, despite the inevitable imperfections of public office, his leadership has earned the trust and admiration of both the people and the traditional institutions of Yagbaland.
The Imperfections of an Asiwaju
Critics often magnify perceived imperfections as though they themselves are flawless, expecting Abejide to operate without missteps and with unrealistic political rigidity. Yet no leader is without fault, and Abejide is no exception. Despite his growing list of achievements, longstanding challenges remain. Insecurity in rural communities, infrastructural gaps and widespread economic hardship continue to pose serious pressure on both Yagba and Nigeria at large.
It was these realities that informed his call for community backed security collaboration, which led to his financing and establishment of the Operation No Mercy Lion Squad. This initiative underscored a vital truth, that even a deserving Asiwaju cannot single handedly resolve every security problem, especially in a region where safety depends on both local intelligence and shared participation.
By acknowledging these limitations, Abejide demonstrates a rare form of political humility. He understands that titles confer honour, not absolute power, and that effective leadership requires strategic partnership with constituents, traditional rulers, security agencies and government institutions. His approach reflects the reality that progress in Yagbaland must be shared, coordinated and continuously negotiated.
Action Speaks Louder Than Titles
While imperfect, Abejide has consistently acted in ways that justify his Asiwaju recognition. Some of these actions include the following
Launching the Lion Squad to combat banditry and insecurity across Yagbaland, demonstrating proactive leadership in safeguarding lives and property.
Yuletide humanitarian outreach programmes, providing sustenance and support to thousands of widows and vulnerable households annually.
Investments in infrastructure, including the Igbagun Ijowa Isanlu 57 point 2 kilometre road and ongoing rehabilitation of other critical community roads, opening better access for trade, education and mobility.
Support for education and empowerment through scholarships and agricultural input programmes that create pathways for long term growth and youth opportunity.
Each of these initiatives reinforces why Abejide is considered the deserving Asiwaju, a leader whose actions validate ceremonial honours, while reminding constituents that leadership is always a journey rather than a finished product.
A Leadership Defined by Balance
The story of Leke Abejide is not one of perfection, but of responsible, responsive and resilient leadership. The title of Asiwaju signifies esteem and influence, while imperfection highlights the constant challenges that accompany governance. Together, they paint a portrait of a leader who is respected yet human, celebrated yet aware of his limitations.
As the people of Yagba continue to observe Abejides journey, they witness a model of leadership grounded in service, accountability and humility. He remains a deserving Asiwaju, but imperfect, navigating the complex realities of constituency representation in contemporary Nigeria.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, JANUARY 15TH 2026)
