Senator Kola Bajomo, a former representative of Ogun West in the Nigerian Senate, offered his perspective on Nigeria’s economic challenges, tax reforms, and the political landscape of Ogun State. With his background in accounting and finance, he provided insights into the complexities of these issues.
Regarding the proposed tax reforms, Senator Bajomo acknowledged the need for periodic adjustments to tax policies. He emphasized that such reforms should be progressive, avoiding undue burdens on the less privileged. He expressed confidence that the reforms would incentivize increased productivity across various sectors, enabling them to generate returns commensurate with their economic standing. While acknowledging opposition to the reforms, he believed that political dialogue would ultimately lead to a resolution. He saw the reforms as a step towards fostering competition among federating units, a key characteristic of a true federal system.
On the issue of Nigeria’s economic struggles and calls for cuts in legislators’ allowances, Senator Bajomo recognized the need for fiscal prudence and rationalization of expenditures across all sectors, including the legislature. However, he cautioned against focusing solely on legislators’ allowances, highlighting the pervasive nature of corruption as the primary economic drain. He advocated for a fundamental shift in societal values, beginning with early childhood education and reinforced by religious and family values, to combat this systemic issue.
Senator Bajomo’s transition from the private sector to politics was driven by a desire to contribute his expertise and ethical principles to public service. He viewed politics not as a career change but as an extension of his professional calling. He believed that individuals with strong moral foundations should actively engage in politics to effect positive change, recognizing that such transformation requires time and persistent effort. He emphasized the importance of drawing inspiration from historical figures in other nations, such as those from the UK, who combined academic excellence with a strong moral compass. He underscores that improving the quality of political leadership requires the involvement of individuals with integrity.
Responding to the debate about part-time legislature, Senator Bajomo questioned the practicality and efficacy of such an approach. He argued that serving one’s country demands full-time commitment and cannot be treated as a secondary occupation. He acknowledged the concerns about the perceived high earnings of Nigerian legislators, but pointed to the substantial demands placed upon them by their constituents, particularly regarding support for various projects and initiatives. He argued that constituency allowances, while substantial, served a crucial purpose in bridging the gap between the government and the people. He stressed the importance of transparency and accountability in the management of these funds, emphasizing that legislators often play a more direct role in addressing the needs of their constituents than members of the executive branch.
Addressing the longstanding political disadvantage of Ogun West Senatorial District in producing a governor, Senator Bajomo attributed this to a combination of factors. He cited the region’s relative underdevelopment in infrastructure, the lower economic standing of its residents compared to other districts, and the greater ethnic diversity within Ogun West, leading to a less unified political front. While acknowledging influential individuals within Ogun West, he noted that their network of opportunities and influence was not as extensive as in other districts. He highlighted the more cohesive ethnic makeup of Ogun East and Central, contrasting it with the greater diversity in Ogun West, although he noted an increasing sense of unity among the Yewa people.
Looking ahead to the 2027 gubernatorial election, Senator Bajomo expressed optimism about Ogun West’s prospects of breaking the jinx. He believed that the historical context of Ogun State, as the home of prominent figures like Obafemi Awolowo, MKO Abiola, Olusegun Obasanjo, and Simeon Adebo, who championed minority rights, creates a favorable environment for addressing the political imbalance. He acknowledged past attempts by Ogun West to secure the governorship, which were hampered by political maneuvering and internal divisions. He also emphasized that while there is no constitutional provision for rotational governorship, an informal understanding exists. He stressed that success in 2027 would require strategic political maneuvering, unity among the various groups within the district, and active engagement in the political process. He cautioned against internal divisions and urged a united front to maximize their chances.
