In a nation that ridiculously parades morally bankrupt politicians and elite at the corridors of power; some have maintained and are still maintaining high level of integrity that has never failed to speak for them whenever occasion calls for it. One of such patriotic citizens that God has blessed Nigeria with is Abdul-Raheem Adebayo Shittu. He is a man that still believes in the Nigerian project even though the nation today is on the precipice. His passion for a better Nigeria and his home State in Nigeria can be likened to that of a prophet sent by God for a particular purpose on the Earth.
When his name was first announced as ministerial nominee from Oyo state; it created a kind of ‘political hullabaloo’ in the Pacesetter state. The Governor and the State chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, all kicked against his nomination which came to them as a surprise. They wrote President Muhammadu Buhari discrediting Shittu but God intervened. Unfortunately for Shittu’s detractors; they missed the fact that Shittu’s reputation for integrity had preceded him. For those who are still wondering why President Muhammadu Buhari decided to choose Adebayo Shittu as minister from Oyo State out of the motley candidates whose names have been submitted to him; the reason is not far-fetched.
Adebayo Shittu has a rare dossier that will be very hard for anybody to beat in Oyo state. Apart from being a very cerebral human being; Adebayo Shittu possesses a rare quality of fighting for equal right and justice among all men. He is one man who will relate with you without qualms. His credentials are so intimidating that no politician in Oyo state today can boast of such impeccable record.
Adebayo Shittu was born on March 23, 1953. He began his political career in the Second Republic when he was elected as Honourable Member of the Oyo State House of Assembly between October 1979 and September, 1983. Despite the fact that he was the youngest lawmaker in the then Oyo State House of Assembly; Adebayo Shittu proved his mettle as a young vibrant lawmaker. He made quality representation as well as valuable contributions which made him a force to be reckoned with at the floor of the House. As a man destined for greatness; Adebayo Shittu’s vibrant and robust disposition to legislative duties stood him out. It was based on his performance as a lawmaker that made Adebayo Shittu to be appointed as the Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Culture and Home Affairs (in the Olunloyo administration) Between October and December, 1983.
As a man who detests injustice; Adebayo Shittu stood by former Governor of Oyo state, Senator Rashidi Ladoja when he was illegally impeached. He was made Attorney General and Oyo State Commissioner for Justice (in the Ladoja government).
The choice of Adebayo Shittu by President Muhammadu Buhari is no doubt a good step in the right direction. Apart from distinguishing himself as man of integrity; Adebayo Shittu is an embodiment of good morals. No wonder why he had a pleasant political relationship with late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, late Chief Bola Ige and others who are still alive today.
For a man who made quality representation as well as valuable contributions as the youngest lawmaker in the then Oyo State House of Assembly in 1979; his emergence as minister under President Muhammadu Buhari will no doubt afford him the opportunity of bringing his experiences to bear at a time Nigeria needs it. Adebayo Shittu will no doubt be of great asset to Buhari’s government.
Written by Alaba Abdulrazak.
