A Man Called OSE – Blessing Afolabi
As a writer, I have often written about Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi, a man whose unique attributes, charisma, and character have made a lasting impression on me. Looking back, Ogunwuyi has always been a politician with the singular focus of development at the forefront of his mind. He is a cheerful giver, a philanthropist, and a man of unquantifiable talents.
When Otunba served as a member of the House of Representatives, I once had an enlightening conversation with him about why he rarely attached his name to the projects he initiated. His response left me in awe. He said, “If I construct a road, do I need to put my name on it? No. I was elected to improve the lives of my people and be a beacon of hope for many, not to show off or seek personal accolades.” His philosophy was simple: he viewed his work as a fulfillment of his constitutional duty, not an opportunity for self-promotion.
In today’s political climate, it is rare to find politicians of such integrity—those who prioritize the well-being of their constituents above personal gain. As a banker, we say that integrity is 100%, and not 99.9%. Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi exemplifies this standard, and I am a living testament to his unwavering commitment.
There was a time when I wondered why His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, placed so much trust in this loyal man called Ogunwuyi. The answer came down to one word: Integrity. Loyalty, they say, is important, but you cannot truly be loyal to someone unless you possess integrity. Governor Makinde, no doubt, has entrusted Otunba with numerous responsibilities, each of which has been handled with diligence and excellence. It is this integrity that has allowed Otunba to stand tall for many years.
In 2019, when Governor Makinde was elected, Otunba was appointed Executive Assistant on Investment. His swift progression to the position of Director-General of Investment and Public-Private Partnerships was a testament to his hard work and unshakable integrity. But it didn’t end there. He was later appointed Chief of Staff to the Governor—a position that underscores the significant trust and responsibility placed in him. These successive appointments were not just tokens of political favor; they were earned through consistent performance and dedication.
Looking ahead, Otunba’s integrity and work ethic will undoubtedly carry him to greater heights in the years to come. Politically, he is a shining light in Oyo State, and his potential is limitless. The future is bright for him, and come 2027, I believe we will see even greater things from him—things that will surpass our current imagination.
Blessing Afolabi writes from Ogbomoso.