By Sodiq Bakene
Nigeria today stands at a defining crossroads. The nation is grappling with economic hardship, declining public trust in leadership and a growing disconnect between elected officials and the people they are meant to serve. In this critical period and as a graduate of Mass Communication, with root from Egba, I have taken time out to research and I discovered that many now see political power not as a platform for service, but as an end in itself, fuelled by self-interest, desperation for office, lack of integrity and in many cases, glaring incompetence.
It is precisely in moments like this that societies must pause and make deliberate choices. History teaches that when times are tough, nations rise or fall on the quality of the men and women they entrust with leadership. As the saying goes, “God give us men this time needs.”
For Abeokuta South Federal Constituency, the need of the hour is clear, a leader of character, capacity and compassion. That leader is Chief Toyin Amuzu (TA).
Chief Toyin Amuzu is widely known in Abeokuta South and beyond, not because of flamboyant political promises, but because of years of consistent, people-centred service.
An Egba Chief, proudly bearing the traditional title of Asiwaju-Leragun Egba, he has earned respect within the community through actions rather than words.
Long before seeking any elective position, Chief Amuzu has been using his personal resources, time and influence to uplift individuals and support community development. At least he has dug over twenty four boreholes in various communities in Abeokuta South, giving out solar street lights and a whole lot to support health, education, security and empowerment. No one will forget in a hurry how he registered one hundred businesses with the Corporate Affairs Commission, CAC for different individuals, giving them kiosks, POS and cash gifts.
In an era when many politicians appear only during election seasons, Chief Toyin Amuzu stands apart. His support for the people is not tied to campaign cycles. He supports before elections, remains present during elections and continues to stand with the people long after elections are over. This rare consistency has endeared him to many and has positioned him as a dependable figure in the constituency.
Central to his philosophy of leadership is the powerful motto he coined: “We Rise Together.”
To some, it may sound like a simple phrase, but in reality, it captures the very essence of his worldview.
For Chief Amuzu, progress is meaningless if it benefits only a few. He believes that true development must be inclusive, lifting families, youths, women, artisans, professionals and the vulnerable alike. His vision is rooted in shared prosperity, unity and collective advancement.
Beyond generosity, Chief Toyin Amuzu brings to the table the values Nigeria desperately needs at this time, fear of God, integrity, humility and compassion. These values guide his interactions with people and shape his approach to leadership.
He is a man who listens, understands the struggles of ordinary citizens and responds with empathy and practical support.
Abeokuta South Federal Constituency deserves more than rhetoric, it deserves representation by someone who understands the pains of the people and has demonstrated a willingness to sacrifice for their well-being. It needs a representative who sees leadership as service, not entitlement. Chief Toyin Amuzu fits this role.
As the constituency looks ahead, the choice is between politics as usual and a new path defined by sincerity, accountability and people-focused leadership.
In Chief Toyin Amuzu, Abeokuta South has an opportunity to choose a man who has already been serving, even without power.
At this critical moment in Nigeria’s journey, Abeokuta South must choose wisely. Chief Toyin Amuzu is not just an aspirant, he is a call to responsible leadership, shared progress and renewed hope. He represents the kind of leadership this time truly needs, one guided by character, strengthened by compassion and committed to ensuring that, indeed, we rise together!.
Bakene, a graduate of Mass Communication, is a writer and sound engineer with special interests in the development of the Egbas
