Senator Solomon Adeola: A Visionary Lawmaker Poised For Greater Impact In Ogun

The political trajectory of Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi) in Nigeria's legislative landscape is a testament to resilience, strategic leadership, and an unwavering commitment to public service. His rise, particularly in the legislative arm at both state and federal levels, has been marked by consistent hard work, merit, and a dedication to governance never by favoritism or mediocrity. Over the last two decades, Senator Adeola has achieved an extraordinary feat, winning six consecutive parliamentary elections across two states, from Lagos West to Ogun West. This remarkable success is a rare accomplishment in Nigeria's political history, demonstrating his broad acceptability and credibility across different constituencies. As the political landscape evolves, there is growing clarity that Yayi may emerge as a strong and credible successor to Governor Dapo Abiodun in 2027.

A Legacy of Legislative Excellence

Senator Adeola's success stems from his commitment to fulfilling electoral promises and serving the interests of the people. Shortly after Nigeria's return to democracy in 1999, he transitioned from The Guardian Newspapers and his accounting consultancy firm, SOOTEM Consulting, into active politics. His journey began in 2003 when he won a seat in the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Alimosho Constituency 2. This marked the beginning of a distinguished career, earning him numerous accolades as a legislator par excellence. At the Lagos State House of Assembly, he served as Chairman of the Joint Committee on Finance and Appropriation, playing a pivotal role in legislative reforms that significantly increased Lagos State's Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) from a modest N5 billion to approximately N50 billion monthly. His effective representation and impactful policies ensured his reelection and subsequent elevation to the House of Representatives, where he represented Alimosho Federal Constituency, Nigeria's largest constituency in terms of population.

In the House of Representatives, he made history as Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, a role traditionally reserved for ranking opposition lawmakers. His leadership exposed massive financial misappropriations in government agencies, and he was instrumental in repealing and re-enacting the colonial-era Audit Act of 1953. His bold legislative actions, including an attempt to investigate the then Minister of Petroleum's private jet charters, showcased his fearless commitment to accountability.

A Dynamic Force in the Senate

Elected as a Senator in 2015, representing Lagos West, Adeola continued his trailblazing impact. Initially serving as Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Communications, he later became the Pioneer Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content. Under his leadership, the committee gained prominence through rigorous oversight of International Oil Companies (IOCs), ensuring compliance with local content laws to benefit Nigerian businesses and professionals. Reelected for a second term in the 9th Senate, he was appointed Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, where he spearheaded critical financial reforms. Under his stewardship, four Finance Acts (2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022) were passed to modernize fiscal legislation and provide economic relief to individuals and businesses. His committee's investigative efforts also led to the recovery of hundreds of millions of naira in unremitted revenue by government agencies.

- Relocating to Ogun West: A Historic Political Move

After serving five terms (20 years) in Lagos, Senator Adeola made a bold move to his ancestral home in Ogun State. Despite facing multiple legal challenges, he emerged victorious in court, solidifying his right to contest in Ogun West. He made history as the first Nigerian senator to serve in one state while simultaneously contesting and winning in another. His landslide victory in Ogun West affirmed his grassroots support and political relevance.

 In the 10th Senate, he continues to play a crucial role in national politics. Notably, he holds the distinction of being the only senator in Nigeria's history to have seconded the motion for the election of two different Senate Presidents: Senator Ahmad Lawan in the 9th Senate and Senator Godswill Akpabio in the 10th Senate. His prominence in legislative affairs has earned him chairmanship of several key committees, including Public Accounts, Local Content, Finance, and, currently, Appropriations. In recognition of his contributions to national development, he was awarded the prestigious national honor of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).

2027: The Ogun Governorship Beckons

The call for an Ogun West governor, encapsulated in the slogan "Yewa Lokan", has transcended ethnic sentiment and evolved into a broader demand for justice, fairness, and competent leadership. Senator Adeola has emerged as a unifying figure capable of bridging the historical political gap between Yewa, Awori, Egba, and Ijebu people. As 2027 approaches, a growing consensus across the Gateway State suggests that not only should power shift to Ogun West, but that Yayi is the best candidate for the job. His leadership qualities, visionary governance approach, and ability to mobilize resources for development make him a formidable contender for the governorship. His focus on youth empowerment, job creation, and infrastructural development aligns with the aspirations of Ogun's residents. With a background in accounting, business, and politics, he possesses the technical expertise to navigate the complexities of governance and drive economic growth.

A Proven Track Record of Impact

For those asking, “What has he done for his people?”, Senator Adeola's record speaks for itself. As Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, he has facilitated numerous developmental projects across Yewaland and Aworiland, including: 

-  Construction of modern school buildings,  hospitals, and markets.
-  Rehabilitation of roads and town halls.
-  Provision of energy infrastructure, including transformers.
-  Full scholarships and bursaries for students.
-  Large-scale empowerment programmes for artisans, traders, and entrepreneurs.

A New Era for Ogun State

As Ogun State prepares for the future, the call for Yayi to lead is growing stronger. His blend of experience, innovation, and grassroots connection makes him the ideal candidate to drive Ogun's progress. He embodies the true meaning of the state's motto, “Omo Ogun, Ise Ya,” a call to hard work, resilience, and collective development. In 2027, Ogun State does not just need a governor, it needs a visionary leader who understands governance, economic transformation, and inclusive leadership. With Yayi, the state is poised for a new era of serenity, prosperity, and unity. He is the candidate who will not only sustain progress but also introduce bold new ideas for a lasting legacy.  The journey to 2027 has begun. Ogun West is ready. Ogun State is ready. And Yayi is ready.

- The Issues Magazine (Vol. 12 No. 64).