A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party in Oyo State and aspirant for the Ibadan NorthWest/Ibadan SouthWest Federal Constituency, Mayegun Sunday Olusegun Babanumi, has called for a renewed focus on values-driven leadership, urging citizens to prioritize unity, affection, and trust in the pursuit of good governance just like that of Engr Seyi Makinde, Executive Governor of Oyo State.
Babanumi made the call in a speech delivered to supporters and community members, where he reflected on the importance of shared humanity as the foundation of leadership and societal progress.
Babanumi firstly commended the leadership style of Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, noting that his administration has demonstrated that governance anchored on empathy and responsiveness can deliver meaningful development to the people.
According to him, Makinde’s approach to leadership reflects the kind of humane affection and people-centred governance that citizens desire from public office holders.
Addressing the audience, the PDP aspirant expressed gratitude for the opportunity to speak, noting that while his message might not contain “big lexicon,” its essence lies in the lessons citizens can reflect on for the present and the future.
“In a world where power often seems to divide, let us focus on what unites us our shared humanity,” he said, emphasizing that governance should not only be measured by policies but by the values embedded within them.
“Two key virtues must guide leadership selection and governance affection and trust”, Mayegun explained that leaders must possess genuine empathy and compassion for the people they serve.
“We must strive to identify leaders with humane affection embedded in their bloodstream leaders who understand the struggles and joys of the people,” he stated.
He further stressed the importance of trust, describing it as the cornerstone for empowering communities to confront present challenges while shaping their future aspirations.
The aspirant maintained that when leaders place these values at the center of governance, the impact becomes transformative.
Policies, he said, become people-focused, leaders become more attentive to citizens’ voices, and communities thrive as development takes root.
Babanumi also outlined what he described as a model for responsible governance, where leaders serve with empathy rather than ego, decisions prioritize collective well-being over personal interests, and transparency and accountability become the standard in public administration.
“This is not idealism; it is pragmatism,” he noted. “When affection and trust guide governance, societies become more resilient, every voice is heard, and every citizen feels valued.”
He added that the journey toward improved governance begins with citizens themselves, urging Nigerians to build a culture of mutual respect and cooperation.
“The path to better governance starts with us — with how we treat one another. We must choose a future where power uplifts rather than oppresses, and where affection and trust become the true currencies of progress,” he said.
Reaffirming his political ambition, Babanumi stated that his aspiration to represent Ibadan NorthWest and Ibadan SouthWest Federal Constituency is rooted in the belief that compassionate leadership can drive meaningful development.
“This is what I stand for and firmly believe is possible,” he concluded. “Together, let us govern with heart.”
