Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo: The New Gospeler on a Mission

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo,  and one of the poster boys of the Tinubu administration, has demonstrated an uncommon and unprecedented understanding of the state politics that any Tinubu supporter would wish for the presidential election to hold today.

His strategy, which continues to attract new members daily, is simple — fostering a good and close relationship with the people. This straightforward approach has ensured the political dominance of both his boss, President Tinubu, and himself in Ondo State.

Today, there are many Tinubu support groups across the state, with most of them having his imprint. It is not surprising that many are already wondering where the young man gets the energy and wisdom to bring together so many political groups to work seamlessly on the same project.

But those who know him do not see anything strange in what Tunji-Ojo, affectionately called BTO by his supporters, is doing. They are quick to cite his unprecedented record as a member of the House of Representatives. BTO broke an age-long jinx of winning a two-term in the Akoko North East/West federal constituency.

Moreover, his record during his time at the green chamber opened the eyes of the people to what kind of representation a House member can offer his people. With his office, BTO has pulled many youths out of the dungeon of hopelessness by providing them with jobs and education. The poor are not left out of his plans. With a constant dose of very rich ‘palliatives’, many poor people have been given a good reason to smile.

All these have given him a cult-like following by people who view his act of kindness as a rescue from the debilitating choking grip of politicians. Many now see hope where they hitherto saw dejection and smile where tears had consistently flowed.

Expectedly, the development has led to a cold war between his supporters and those of the state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa. Recently, Tunji-Ojo addressed the matter when some leaders from the state paid him a visit in Abuja. He reiterated that there was no need for any such rift, maintaining that he was focused on delivering on President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.