The Itesiwaju Ire-Akari community in Sango-Ota, Ogun State, was filled with emotion and reflection on Saturday, September 6, as residents, community leaders, and stakeholders gathered to honour past leaders who played pivotal roles in the area’s development.

The event not only celebrated their contributions but also highlighted ongoing challenges in administration and women’s participation in leadership, turning the occasion into both a tribute and a rallying call.

Chairman of the Agricultural Development Corporation, Josh Arianokan, recalled his role as a foundation member of the early Community Development Associations (CDAs).

“Appreciation is the greatest thing you can do for a human being. If you encourage leaders while they are alive, it will motivate them to do more,” he said.

For Arianokan, recognising past leaders is more than symbolic. “Those posthumous awards matter, but appreciating people while they are still here encourages continuity,” he added. On the question of women’s underrepresentation in politics, Arianokan admitted that their inclusion has been very low.

“Politicians see everyone who enters the ring as the same,” he said. “They don’t discriminate, they say, ‘This is a woman, let’s give her priority.’ But women must unite and speak with one voice. Politics is a game of numbers, and women are more than men. If they can unite behind one cause, even a woman president is possible.” Chairman of the Ire-Akari Forum, Anthony Asu, also underscored women’s role in community progress.

“For those who know me, I am an advocate of empowering women. You can see it in our leadership history. Mrs Taiwo and Mrs Karim have both held critical positions in this community. Without women, there is no life,” he said.

Retired teacher, Rahim Olabisi, described the initiative as “very nice” and a source of encouragement for both leaders and followers. She also urged greater support for women in politics, despite her personal aversion to partisan activities. “The community where you have notable politicians is always more developed. Government recognises such places. That is why women who have the mind for politics should be supported,” she said.

Another resident, Oluwatoyin Taiwo, a trader and pensioner, remembered sacrifices made by community members who lost their lives in land disputes and intra-community quarrels.

“Some of them died in fights over land and other disagreements. It is painful, but remembering them ensures their families know their efforts were not in vain,” she explained.

Taiwo also called for more women to take leadership roles within CDAs. “When I was chairperson, I was able to complete projects that men before me could not finish, by God’s grace and with proper organisation. Women know how to manage money and collect contributions. That is why I always encourage my fellow women not to step aside,” she said.

Similarly, another resident, Fashina Babajide, stressed that the community deliberately sponsors training programmes to prepare women for leadership roles.

“We don’t see women as outsiders. We see them as partners and as the future. That is why we carry them along and give them the same opportunities,” he said.