By Seun Odunlami
I woke up this morning reflecting on the 2023 general elections and like many people in Abeokuta South Federal Constituency, my mind drifted back to the atmosphere of that period.
It was a season filled with hope, anticipation and rare excitement. There was joy in the air, a sense that something different was about to happen. For once, many of our people believed their votes would translate into the kind of leadership they truly desired.
That feeling was not accidental. It was driven by one name, Chief Toyin Amuzu, TA.
I remember vividly how the election results trickled in and how Toyin Amuzu was leading. Across communities, people trooped out voluntarily, not because they were induced, but because they believed they had found a man after their hearts. The frenzy, the celebrations, the optimism, it all felt like the beginning of a new chapter for Abeokuta South.
Sadly, that joy was cut short when the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced an outcome that shocked the voters. Today, the rest, as they say, is history.
Yet, history also invites reflection.
I cannot help but imagine how impactful Chief Toyin Amuzu would have been if he is presently representing Abeokuta South Federal Constituency today in the House of Representatives in Abuja. The massive support he enjoyed during the election was not built on empty promises or political rhetoric. It was rooted in years of visible, measurable and people-centred service.
Chief Toyin Amuzu has consistently demonstrated what leadership should look like. Leadership anchored on selflessness, compassion and community development.
Long before seeking elective office, he had already become a pillar of support to many communities. Through his personal efforts and the Toyin Amuzu Foundation (TAF), he has directly touched lives across Abeokuta South.
His record speaks loudly. Over 20 boreholes have been dug and donated to communities struggling with access to clean water. More than 400 solar-powered streetlights have been installed, improving safety and extending economic activities at night. Understanding the importance of economic empowerment, he facilitated CAC business registrations for over 100 Egba indigenes, providing them with kiosks, Point of Sale (POS) terminals, financial support and the tools to become self-reliant.
Beyond these, Chief Amuzu has provided free fuel, food relief, healthcare services, education support and countless interventions that statistics may not fully capture, but which the beneficiaries will never forget. These are not actions of a man seeking applause, they are habits of a man wired to serve.
One would have thought that losing an election would slow him down or dampen his passion. Instead, he continued. His generosity did not stop. His compassion did not fade. Because for him, service is not seasonal, it is an inbuilt quality.
Making people smile is not a strategy; it is his nature. This is why the loss still feels personal to many of us.
How do you replace a man who was genuinely willing to represent his people with sincerity and substance? How do you ignore someone who openly promised to legislate for the common good, to push for laws that ensure social security, economic inclusion and improved quality of life for ordinary citizens?
Chief Toyin Amuzu’s vision for Abeokuta South was not abstract. It was practical, using legislation as a tool to secure better welfare, stronger communities, and a fairer society. These are plans that deserve support, not sidelining.
Suppose it was Toyin Amuzu. We all know the truth, there would have been hope for Abeokuta South Federal Constituency. We would have been better served by a proven performer, a man of integrity, competence, capability, credibility and the fear of God.
Chief Toyin Amuzu, the Asiwaju Leragun Egba, standing on the platform of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), chose not to join the wolves whose politics thrives on impoverishing the people. He stood firm with the masses. And as history has shown, the PDP remains the political party with a people-centred philosophy and a genuine concern for the welfare of Nigerians.
The 2027 elections present another opportunity, a moment to correct the past and secure the future. This time, Abeokuta South must ensure that the best man is put forward. A man whose life already reflects the kind of representation we desire.
Chief Toyin Amuzu believes in one simple truth, when the people rise, we must rise together.
And indeed, with TA, there is still hope.
Seun Odunlami is a media man, Investigative Journalist and political analyst based in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
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