Why Public Engagement & Participation Matters in Governance: A Lesson for Gov. Abdulrazaq

By Adio Odunjo Obbo-Ile

Unarguably, effective governance thrives on inclusivity and public participation. When political leaders consult their constituents before initiating projects or policies, they ensure that development efforts align with the real needs and priorities of the people they serve. It also inspires the public to take ownership of such projects or policies. Engaging citizens fosters trust, enhances transparency, and promotes accountability, ultimately leading to more impactful and sustainable projects.

The above stated reality seems to be lost on Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State, who's fond of initiating projects and policies without consulting, engaging with or seeking the inputs of stakeholders and the general public. If Governor Abdulrazaq truly understands the people he governs, he wouldn't make policies without first engaging them. Time and again, his administration has made decisions that directly affect the grassroots, yet without the slightest effort to consult those on the receiving end. One of the most glaring examples of this is the Ilorin Smart City project, which became an embarrassment for his government when communities in Kwara South rejected it outright.

The pushback wasn’t because people oppose development—it was because they were never involved in the conversation in the first place. Ifeldoun LG stakeholders and groups like the Kwara South Youth Congress had to step in to remind the government of something basic: Kwara is one state, and if a project is meant for the collective good, it should reflect that reality. Renaming it from "Ilorin Smart City" to "Kwara Smart City" is the least that could be done, yet it took public outcry for the government to realize its mistake.

This lack of consultation is not an isolated incident—it’s a pattern of the present administration. It’s evident in the neglect of rural communities across Kwara, where infrastructure is crumbling, and development is largely non-existent. The governor seems more interested in grandiose projects that serve political optics rather than projects that cater to real needs of everyday people. Roads in the hinterlands remain impassable, healthcare is in shambles, and schools in rural areas are barely functional. But instead of addressing these pressing issues, the government is more concerned with acquiring land for a project whose vision the affected communities do not even understand.

Even Senator Saliu Mustapha, a man not even in executive power, recently embarked on an empowerment initiative and thought it wise to reach out to rural communities in other senatorial districts despite the fact that he is only representing the good people of Kwara Central. Yet, what does Governor Abdulrazaq have to show for rural development in the State? The same governor who boasts about commissioning projects months ago has nothing significant in rural areas to point to. The irony is deafening.

We have a Governor, who's far removed from the realities and plight of his people. Everyone and every senatorial district deserves to be carried along in governance. People want development, but they want it done with their input, not as an afterthought. The governor must realize that leadership isn’t about dictating arbitrarily from above but about engaging with the concerned people. Conversely, neglecting public input can result in misplaced priorities, wasted resources, and public dissatisfaction. In a democratic society, governance should be a collaborative effort, where leaders listen, engage, and respond to the needs of their communities to drive meaningful and lasting development.

The rejection of the Ilorin Smart City name is a warning shot. Kwarans are paying attention, and they won’t be silent when unjust decisions are made over their heads.