The Weight of Leadership: Governor Seyi Makinde on My Mind || O. T. Alphonso

The Weight of Leadership: Governor Seyi Makinde on My Mind || O. T. Alphonso

Published by Samuel Toba-Olumide 

Leadership is often admired from a distance, painted in the bright colors of prestige, power, and public admiration. We see the convoys, the sirens, the accolades, the grandeur of high office, and it’s easy to be swept away by the glamor of it all. But beneath the surface lies a sobering reality: leadership is not a parade; it is a burden; one that tests the mind, the body, and the soul.

Too often, we focus on the spectacle and ignore the sacrifice. We overlook the immense responsibility that comes with leading millions. People of different ethnicities, religions, cultures, and expectations. Decisions made at the top ripple across lives, communities, and generations. True leadership demands more than vision; it demands restraint, empathy, courage, and, above all, sacrifice.

I find myself reflecting on these things watching Engr. Seyi Makinde, the Executive Governor of Oyo State. His journey through governance isn’t just a political story, it’s a testament to the weight of public service. The sleepless nights, the lonely decisions, the constant balance between state duty and family life. The emotional toll of bearing the hopes of a people, and the physical strain of responding to crises most of us will never hear about.

Sometimes I wonder: how does he manage the pressure? How does he carry so much with such composure? Perhaps this is why many leaders emerge from office visibly aged; worn by the stress that comes with the privilege of serving others.

This month marks six years since Governor Makinde assumed office, and I find myself overwhelmed with a deep sense of appreciation. I remain proud to have supported him, not blindly, but with the conviction that he embodies intentional leadership, accountability, and a deep commitment to the people of Oyo State.

Yes, there have been moments of disappointment; especially when certain decisions didn't yield the expected results, like the last general election. Perhaps some of it stemmed from gaps in information or strategy. But even with such moments, nothing erases the fact that Engr. Seyi Makinde stands tall as the finest governor in the history of Oyo State and one of the most impactful leaders Nigeria has seen since 1999.

Every now and then, he crosses my mind, and I just feel like giving him a heartfelt hug and saying, “Thank you.”

Thank you for choosing to lead.

Thank you for carrying this burden with grace.

Thank you for showing us what true service looks like.

It is a privilege to be led by one of the best of us.

With gratitude,

~O.T. Alphonso

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