03/06/2026
*PEOPLE, PRIVILEGE, POWER AND PURPOSE: REFLECTING ON DR. OLUSEGUN MIMIKO'S MESSAGE ON LEADERSHIP*
*By Hon. Aregbesola Oluwadele Nifẹmi Wadel*
*P.R.O, ATUNLUṢE* *INITIATIVES*
The 76th birthday
celebration of Hon. Akinlaja Joseph Iranola in Ondo was more than a gathering of family, friends, political associates, and community leaders. It evolved into a moment of profound reflection on leadership, governance, and public service when former Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, fondly known as "Iroko," delivered a compelling address titled "People, Privilege, Power and Purpose."
Drawing from years of experience in governance and public service, Dr. Mimiko challenged leaders at all levels to reassess the true meaning of leadership and the responsibilities that come with it.
According to the former governor, leadership begins with the People. The people are the foundation of every democratic system, and political authority derives its legitimacy from them. A government that loses touch with its people ultimately loses its relevance.
He described Privilege as an opportunity to serve rather than an avenue for personal gain. Positions of influence, public office, wealth, and status are privileges entrusted to individuals for the benefit of society. Such privileges, he emphasized, must be exercised with humility and a commitment to the common good.
On the subject of Power, Dr. Mimiko stressed that authority should be guided by responsibility, compassion, and accountability. Power, when exercised without conscience, can become destructive. However, when directed toward service and development, it becomes a tool for transformation and progress.
The final pillar, Purpose, formed the central message of his speech. Leaders, he argued, must constantly examine their motivations and ask themselves what legacy they intend to leave behind. Leadership without purpose often degenerates into self-interest, while leadership driven by purpose creates lasting impact and meaningful change.
In a memorable conclusion, Dr. Mimiko referenced Matthew 25:31-45 and declared:
"Show me a man without courage, and I will show you a selfish man."
The statement drew applause from the audience and served as a reminder that genuine leadership requires courage—the courage to stand for justice, defend the vulnerable, and make sacrifices for the welfare of others.
The significance of this message is amplified by the speaker's own record in public office. During his tenure as Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Mimiko became widely recognized for people-oriented policies and developmental initiatives. His administration invested heavily in healthcare, education, urban renewal, and social welfare.
Among the landmark achievements associated with his administration were the renowned Abiye Safe Motherhood Programme, the establishment of Mother and Child Hospitals, the development of modern markets for traders, the construction and renovation of educational facilities, free school shuttle services for students, and the establishment of the University of Medical Sciences, Ondo. These initiatives earned national and international recognition and reinforced his reputation as a leader focused on improving the lives of ordinary citizens.
Many residents still recall the period as one in which Ondo State experienced significant investments in human development, environmental renewal, and public infrastructure. The modernization of markets provided safer and more organized trading environments for market women and small business owners, while healthcare and educational reforms expanded access to essential services.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with economic, social, and political challenges, the message of People, Privilege, Power and Purpose remains highly relevant. It serves as a call to leaders to place service above self-interest and to view public office as a platform for improving lives rather than accumulating personal influence.
The enduring lesson from Dr. Mimiko's address is clear: power is temporary, privilege is a trust, purpose gives direction, but service to the people is what ultimately defines a leader's legacy.
At a time when citizens increasingly demand accountability and purposeful governance, this message stands as both a reflection on leadership and a challenge to those who aspire to lead.
