Otunba Gbenga Daniel, senator representing Ogun East and former Governor of Ogun State, has urged southern politicians and elites to take a lesson from their Northern and Eastern counterparts when it comes to political unity and collaboration. He made this call as the keynote speaker at the 40th Convention and Investiture of the 41st President of Junior Chambers International (JCI) Ikeja, held on Saturday, September 14, at Chrisland School, Opebi, Ikeja. The event, themed “Boundless Bond: Thriving Together,” highlighted the importance of unity, collective effort, and solidarity among communities and professionals.
In his address, Otunba Daniel, who holds a respected legacy within Nigerian politics and was once part of the inner circle of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and also led the student wing of the Unity Party of Nigeria in 1978, recounted his experiences in Nigerian political history, emphasizing the sense of camaraderie and unity that has helped Northern politicians excel and become a force today, despite their political differences.
“The Northern political class remains indivisible, maintains high cordiality, and exhibits a strong sense of camaraderie,” Senator Daniel remarked, noting that this unity has significantly contributed to their enduring political success. He cited a recent event as an example: “I watched a video of Vice President Kashim Shettima and Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President and presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), journeying together on a bus to attend the funeral of Dada Yar’Adua in Katsina. Despite being political rivals, they were seated together, demonstrating their bond, which transcends political competition.”
Dada Yar’Adua, the mother of late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, passed away on September 2 at the age of 102. Her funeral brought together politicians across party lines, reinforcing Otunba Daniel’s message that unity among Northern leaders remains a key to their political influence.
Senator Daniel also drew comparisons with the Eastern region, particularly the Igbo business community, which he said is rooted in a culture of mentorship and collective growth. He recounted how Igbo businessmen traditionally train apprentices, usually young boys from their villages, for many years. Upon completion of their apprenticeship, these young men are set up in business by their mentors. “You will never see the younger man compete with his boss. This system fosters growth and unity within their communities,” he explained.
However, Otunba Daniel lamented the lack of similar collaboration and mentorship in the South, particularly among the political and elite classes. “I don’t see much of this camaraderie in the South. When I was growing up, the biggest construction company in Ibadan was T.A. Oni and Sons. We all aspired to replicate such feats. Sadly, in our region, most organizations die with their founders. This is because there is no strong bond between the visionaries and their subordinates,” he observed.
He used these examples to urge the JCI members in attendance to build strong networks and hold each other accountable as they advance in their careers. The importance of collective action and mutual support, he suggested, could be key to their long-term success. “When we have collective action, who will hold us in check when we are in office? Unlike some public servants today, who come into politics to steal from the commonwealth of the nation, there is a need for us to stand united and disciplined.”
Otunba Daniel’s address, rich with relatable anecdotes, reinforced the central theme of the event, encouraging Southern politicians, elites, and young leaders to foster unity, grow together, and create enduring legacies for future generations.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
