Politics in Nigeria—and indeed across the world—is often shaped not by objective truth but by perception, emotion, and the narratives woven by power blocs. In the flurry of political gossip, whispers, and strategic character assassinations, certain individuals become the target of calculated campaigns to diminish their credibility.
In recent times, the Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Her Excellency Mrs. Monisade Afuye, has found herself at the center of such a storm. A group self-styled , “Concerned APC Patriots” has called for her rejection in any re-nomination or reelection bid, citing “incompetence” and pointing fingers at her academic backgrounds—or, in their view, the perceived insufficiency thereof.
It is imperative to stress that such a narrative is not only misguided but also outdated. Needless to say that it reflects a narrow, elitist, and exclusionary vision of leadership—one that mainly overemphasizes educational backgrounds while ignoring the practical, lived competence that effective governance demands. Leadership in the 21st century is no longer measured solely in paper credentials; it is measured in service, results, empathy, and the ability to inspire trust.
Mrs. Afuye’s tenure as Deputy Governor demonstrates that she not only understands these leadership imperatives but also embodies them daily.
Reducing leadership capacity to university degrees acquisition or to the sympathetic resonance level of oratory abilities or linguistic competencies is akin to judging a farmer by the size of his barn rather than the quality of his harvest. History is replete with examples of transformational leaders who were not the most decorated academically but left legacies unmatched by more “qualified” contemporaries.
Margaret Ekpo, for instance, was not a university graduate, yet she became one of Nigeria’s most celebrated political figures, championing women’s rights and political participation in the pre- and post-independence era. Similarly, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti—often called the Lioness of Lisabi—did not rely on academic accolades to wage a relentless battle for social justice and women’s liberation.
In more recent history, leaders such as Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia and Africa’s first elected female head of state, remind us that while education can enhance leadership, it is vision, courage, and commitment to people that truly sustain it.
Mrs. Afuye’s political journey mirrors this reality. Her leadership is not rooted in theory alone—it is born of practical engagement with people, grassroots mobilization, and real-world problem-solving.
Contrary to the narrative of the Naysayers (Concerned APC Patriots), Mrs. Afuye’s performance in office is far from mediocre. On the contrary, it has been both visible and impactful.
*Grassroots Empowerment – Her tenure has seen a deliberate focus on reaching the rural and underserved communities of Ekiti State through empowerment.
*Community Mediation – In a state where communal disputes, land issues, and political tensions occasionally flare, Mrs. Afuye has served as a bridge-builder, mediating between conflicting interests with tact and neutrality specially the land disputes between Ekiti and Osun, Kwara ,Ondo and Kogi States. Also worthy of note are : Osan/Epe and Osan/Iro boundary disputes.
*Strategic Representation – The Deputy Governor’s role is not ceremonial. On multiple occasions, Mrs. Afuye has represented the Governor Oyebanji at high-profile state and national functions in Osun, Ogun Ondo, Kwara, Abuja, Akwa Ibom ,Lagos, and Oyo—important platforms where political diplomacy, policy knowledge, and personal decorum are paramount. Such tasks are entrusted only to leaders who inspire confidence and demonstrate competence.
*Party Loyalty and Stability – Politics is also about party discipline and unity. Mrs. Afuye has remained a loyal and stabilizing figure within the political machinery of Ekiti State, helping to maintain cohesion within the ranks and preventing factional implosions. Governor Oyebanji at the Mrs Afuye’s mother’s burial ceremony publicly testified to his deputy’s unalloyed loyalty and reverence to constituted authority.
The Myth of Academic Monopoly on Competence has become a snag in every political setting. The argument that formal education is the sole determinant of competence is deeply flawed. In governance, a PhD in Economics means little if the holder cannot translate policy into tangible benefits for the people.
Therefore, competence in political leadership requires a blend of skills:
*Emotional intelligence to understand the needs of constituents
*Negotiation skills to navigate competing interests
*Strategic thinking to prioritize policies and allocate resources
*Courage to take unpopular but necessary decisions
*Consistency to build trust over time
Mrs. Afuye has consistently demonstrated these qualities. Her critics conveniently ignore the fact that many academically celebrated politicians have failed disastrously in office, while leaders with less formal schooling have governed with foresight and effectiveness.
It is important to note that female leaders, especially in Nigeria, are often judged by harsher and sometimes irrelevant standards. While male politicians with questionable academic credentials often rise unchallenged, women in similar positions are subjected to disproportionate scrutiny.
Mrs. Afuye’s case is a textbook example of this bias. Her detractors focus obsessively on her gentle mien and unassuming disposition rather than on her impact, dedication, and moral integrity. This not only undermines her personal record but also discourages capable women from entering politics—a dangerous precedent for our democracy.
The essence of political office is service—meeting people’s needs, solving problems, and advancing the collective good.
During her time as Deputy Governor, Mrs. Afuye has supported the developmental initiatives of Governor Oyebanji in no little magnitude. Put succinctly, there is no iota of unhealthy rivalry between Mrs Afuye and her principal which could hinder the smooth running of government:
*Effectively supported her Boss’ road rehabilitation and construction projects in rural areas
*Effectively supported Oyebanji’s educational initiatives for disadvantaged children
*Fully supported Ekiti healthcare outreach programs, especially in maternal and child health
- Supported her Principal’s collaboration between the state government and traditional rulers to foster community development
These are not the achievements of an “incompetent” leader—they are the hallmarks of a leader who understands governance as a tool for transformation.
In a political climate often characterized by backstabbing, factional rivalries, and unstable alliances, the presence of a loyal and principled Mrs Afuye can mean the difference between a government’s success and its collapse.
Mrs. Afuye’s loyalty to Governor Biodun Oyebanji and her commitment to the shared vision for Ekiti State have been instrumental in maintaining political stability. Stability is not an accident—it is the product of deliberate choices by leaders who put collective progress above personal ambition.
Leadership is ultimately measured by the trust of the people and the tangible results delivered. Higher education may open doors, but they do not guarantee wisdom, empathy, or political skill.
The biblical principle that “by their fruits you shall know them” applies here. Mrs. Afuye’s fruits are evident in her record:
*Accessible governance
*Responsiveness to community concerns
*Respect for the dignity of the people she serves
Re-nominating Mrs. Afuye is not merely about rewarding loyalty—it is about building on a foundation of proven service.
In a time when Nigeria needs more practical, people-focused leaders, the state cannot afford to discard one who has shown herself capable in both quiet diplomacy and visible governance.
The upcoming political season will again test our ability as a people to distinguish substance from noise. Let us remember that the true test of leadership is service to the people, not the size of academic braggadocio.
Mrs. Monisade Afuye has served with distinction, loyalty, and competence. Ekiti State will be better served by continuity in her role as Deputy Governor—ensuring that leadership remains rooted in service, not elitist gatekeepin
