ALAAFIN OF OYO: THE KING WHO ASKED FOR A SCHOOL, NOT A CHEQUE
THE TRAIT OF KING SOLOMON, WITH AN INTELLIGENT DEMAND
There are two types of leaders: those who fill their own pockets, and those who secure their people’s future. His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Abdul-Akeem Owoade, Elewuetu I, the Alaafin of Oyo, has proven himself to be firmly in the latter category.
A source close to Aiyekooto Reporters revealed to this media the wisdom of the imperial Majesty in quick quest to put his kingdom ahead of individualistic instincts as associated with some greedy lots. However, as fate designs it to be, few months later destiny brought him face to face with the Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, Dr. Zacch Adedeji Adelabu – a man accustomed to receiving endless personal requests. Many who meet him come with a familiar refrain: “Help me with this, help me with that, remember my family.”
According to the impeccable source,
when it was the turn of the Alaafin of Oyo, he stunned everyone present. He placed the interest of his people far above any personal gain.
He did not ask for money.
He did not ask for a luxury car.
He did not ask for a contract.
He did not ask for a favour to beautify his palace.
Instead, he made one profound request: “Give my people an institution.”
He requested that a Federal Tax Training Institute be sited in Oyo – an institution that will draw students from across Nigeria to the ancient kingdom, create jobs for his people, stimulate the local economy, and permanently place Oyo on the national map.
And he got it.
But, as our elders say, when fortune enters one man’s house, his neighbour’s eyes turn red.
Since the approval of the institute was announced, a chorus of complaints has emerged from some quarters. “Why Oyo and not our town? The school should have been sited in our community! They have taken what rightfully belongs to us!”
Their anger is not rooted in any dislike for Iku Baba Yeye. It stems from the painful realization that they lack a leader with his foresight.
Let this be a clarion call to every community: Advise your kings and leaders that whenever they journey to Abuja, they should not ask for envelopes or luxury cars. They should ask for institutions that will feed and empower their people for generations to come.
A leader with a mendicant mentality will only succeed in impoverishing his people.
A true king builds a legacy that outlives him.
