Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), yesterday, said that the country’s leadership recruitment process had been fundamentally broken by money politics and godfatherism.

He, therefore, emphasised the need for merit-driven recruitment in governance.

According to Keyamo, the situation has led to the emergence of incompetent leaders who have stalled the country’s development for decades.

The minister spoke during a book launch and celebration of the 70th birthday anniversary of Olusola Oke (SAN), in Akure, Ondo State capital, where he dissected what he described as the structural deficiencies plaguing how political candidates emerge, are selected and ultimately govern.

Keyamo, during the book launch, titled: From the Ocean to the Bar, chronicling the life of Oke, stressed that constitutional requirements for public office have been subverted by powerful interests operating unchecked.

He noted that the cost of Nomination and Expression of Interest forms had risen to levels that systematically exclude many capable Nigerians, saying that the situation has transformed political participation into an elite affair where those with deep pockets or powerful sponsors prevail.

The minister also mentioned the lack of ideological clarity in Nigeria’s political space as a persistent obstacle, noting that political parties often struggle to articulate what they truly stand for beyond the desire to win elections.

However, the former Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of The Guardian, Martins Oloja, who reviewed the book, described it as a narrative shaped by purpose and perseverance.

Oloja noted that the book portrays the author as a folklore and gospel singer, teacher, lawyer, politician, and leader, offering valuable lessons on grace, humility, and gratitude to younger generations.

“From the first chapter to the last, you will see chronicles of how the young Olusola has been shaped by the power of grace in the household of faith. In the book, you will see him as a church leader even without a title. You will see how all the philosophies he espouses in all the opening paragraphs are anchored on the overt and covert words of grace.”

Planning Committee Chairman, Busuyi Mekusi, a professor of African Literature, described Oke as someone who has enjoyed the mercy of God, broken physical barriers and demonstrated a compassionate touch with a deep reservoir of knowledge that has benefited humanity.

In his opening remark, Basorun Seinde Arogbofa celebrated and described Oke as someone whose life is worthy of recognition and emulation.

Meanwhile, Oke attributed his journey over the past years to the grace of God, describing his life as a testimony of divine favour, resilience, and accomplishment.

Oke said his life story reflects both challenges and triumphs across his career as a legal professional and politician, saying, “At 70, I have seen a lot, both in the legal profession and in politics. It has been a journey of challenges, but also of remarkable accomplishments.”

He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his leadership, while also appreciating political associates and leaders who have contributed to his growth over the years.