His trademark is Ilaji, which translates to half in Yoruba. But everyone associated with socio-economic and political happenings in Oyo State in recent years would confirm that his contributions are not just complete; they ‘full ground,’ to borrow the street lingo. Engr. Jubril Dotun Sanusi is the man who adopted his mother’s tradename and gave it a global presence.
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, on Friday promoted him to the rank of Gbonka Olubadan in the famous Ibadan Chieftaincy lineage. It is indeed a well-deserved promotion for a man who is fast becoming the Idameji Ibadan ti won npe l’enikan (a half of Ibadan, being addressed as one person), as propounded by the Late Ilorin Dadakuada exponent, Odolaiye Aremu, in the days of the late strongman of Ibadan politics, Alhaji Lamidi Adedibu.
This is quite evident in his contributions to all aspects of human life that concern Ibadan and Oyo State. In the build-up to the current electioneering campaign ahead of the 2027 election, there was so much pressure on him to seek the position of governor. I do not know how he managed to sidestep the myriads of calls and direct pressure.
But the man has focused on his business, his philanthropy, his sports development, his agricultural exploits, his educational institution, cultural activism, and his pioneering tourism activities.
He is a key investor and employer of labour in the state, one person whom the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) and other Ibadan Socio-cultural groups cannot do without. He is truly an example of a man who is serving the people, without necessarily seeking political power.
Indeed, it is highly uncommon for anyone to become such a rallying point as he is without seeking to translate the goodwill into political power. I am sure he is content rendering service to the people, making them as happy as he can, and creating opportunities for many more.
As the Gbonka Olubadan, it is a call to more service, one which I know he would not be found wanting. Congratulations, Gbonka Olubadan, the Okanlomo Oodua. Let me put it as they say it in Ibadan: e o ko ajo Ibadan. Amin, ase.
