A prominent gubernatorial hopeful within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State has issued a strong appeal to the nation's leadership cadre. Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo has called on political, traditional, community, and religious leaders across Nigeria to adopt a more compassionate approach to governance, specifically urging them to become beacons of happiness rather than despair for the citizens they serve.
Festive Appeal for Empathetic Governance
The appeal was made public in a Christmas goodwill message disseminated to journalists in the early hours of Wednesday, December 25, 2025. In his statement, Ajadi extended his congratulations to all Nigerians, with special mention to residents of Oyo State, on the celebration of Christmas and the approaching New Year.
He directed warm greetings to the members and leaders of the PDP and all Oyo State indigenes, advising them to celebrate with both joy and caution. “I urge everyone to celebrate with joy but also with caution, avoiding wasteful spending during this period,” the aspirant stated, highlighting the economic realities facing many.
Leadership as a Sacred Trust
Ajadi positioned leadership fundamentally as a trust bestowed by the people. He argued that those in positions of authority must recognize that the populace looks to them for hope, comfort, and protection. “At a time like this, leaders at all levels must be kind to their followers and ensure they are seen as sources of joy, not sources of sorrow,” he emphasized.
Connecting his message to the spirit of Christmas, the politician, popularly associated with the “Omituntun 3.0” gubernatorial slogan, said the season demands a renewed commitment to selfless service, fairness, and inclusiveness. This call is particularly poignant, he noted, given the widespread economic hardship many Nigerians are enduring.
“Christmas reminds us of love, sacrifice and service to humanity. These values must reflect in our leadership style,” Ajadi added, challenging leaders to prioritize public welfare over personal interests.
Security and Collective Responsibility
Beyond the call for compassionate leadership, the PDP chieftain also addressed the critical issue of personal and communal security during the festivities. He urged citizens to maintain a high level of vigilance, stating that individual security consciousness is the first line of national defence.
Ajadi further elaborated that the true measure of effective leadership should not be power or privilege, but the tangible, positive impact it has on ordinary citizens, especially the most vulnerable. He warned that arrogance and insensitivity from leaders only serve to widen the gap between them and the people.
“When leaders lead with compassion, the people respond with trust and cooperation. This is the kind of leadership we need to build a peaceful, progressive and prosperous Nigeria,” he asserted.
In closing, Ambassador Ajadi extended special prayers and salutations to traditional rulers across Oyo State, as well as to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the League of Imams. Reaffirming his political vision, he promised that his Omituntun 3.0 agenda would focus on inclusive development, social welfare, and responsive leadership, aiming to build upon the current administration's policies under Governor Seyi Makinde.
