Interview: I’ll Always Demand Accountability from Govt Officials, Be Nonconformist to Evil – Biyi Orilabawaye

Biyi Orilabawaye clocks 50 years today. The celebrant is a man of grace who celebrates life’s blessings without holding back. His personality is multifaceted: ebullient, witty, engaging, a born-again Christian, an activist, and a passionate advocate for social and developmental progress.

As a public servant, farmer, avid reader, prolific writer, and humanist, he is known for his sharp sense of humour and his refusal to suffer fools gladly. Orilabawaye was born in Akotogbo five decades ago. His vast knowledge and extensive travels have shaped his worldview.

In this interview, he spoke about a wide range of subjects from God, to his humble beginnings, educational and career journey, as well as politics and many more.

Excerpts.

Our readers would love to meet you. Tell us about yourself, sir. 

Yes, here I am! (Rapturous laughter!) My name is Biyi Richard Orilabawaye. I was born almost five decades ago to the late Chief Arayesomo George Orilabawaye and Mrs. Bernice Orilabawaye of Olorogun Quarters, Akotogbo.

I began my elementary education at Saint Andrew’s Anglican Primary School, Akotogbo, where I served as the school timekeeper. I continued at Akotogbo Community High School for my secondary education, where I was the school librarian.

After graduating from secondary school in 1992, I packed my bags and left Akotogbo for Lagos in 1993. After a few years of hustling, I enrolled at Ondo State Polytechnic, Owo (now Rufus Giwa Polytechnic), where I obtained a National Diploma in Business Administration and Management. Later, I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Lagos State University and another in Business Marketing from the University of Wales, UK.

I also attended Obafemi Awolowo University for my MBA in Marketing, and I added a PGD in Public Relations and Advertising (PRAD) at the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Ogba, Lagos.

I began my career at Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank PLC) on Broad Street, Lagos, and later moved to Standard Chartered Bank on Ajose Adeogun, Victoria Island, Lagos, as a Relationship Officer. When the telecom industry entered Nigeria, I joined MTN as a Customer Service Officer in Apapa. I later moved to Globacom as Retention and Churn Manager in the Marketing Department at Mike Adenuga Towers, Adeola Odeku Street, Victoria Island.

Eventually, I transitioned from the private sector to the public sector and joined the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in the Education, Health, and Social Services Department.

I am married to one wife, my “sweet potato,” Iyobosa Orilabawaye, and we are blessed with children. Additionally, I am a farmer and frequently comment on social, political, religious, leadership, youth, and developmental issues. I am also an ordained Deacon and Altar Minister in the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).

Can you kindly share with us, some lessons you have garnered from life over these decades?

Well, life has never been a bed of roses. Some of us were born in rural communities, and we’ve had to work extra hard. Life has taught me that one should take up responsibility early and be ready to delay gratification. To navigate life, we need higher support. For me, Jesus Christ is my anchor, the author and finisher of my faith.

We must also treat others as we wish to be treated: be kind, generous, gentle as a dove, and wise as a serpent. Love your neighbor as yourself, give to charity, and be grateful to God. Show appreciation to your benefactors and never bite the hands that once fed you. Above all, don’t be careless with life.

Would it be right to say you’re somewhat controversial or a nonconformist?

Well, people are entitled to their assessment of my personality, just as I assess others. Some of us have been created by God for “tough assignments.” Here, people want to eat their cake and still have it. If you’re a government official, the funds under your care don’t belong to you; you’re merely a custodian. Unfortunately, we have people in government who only care about siphoning money for their personal benefit. When some of us demand accountability, we’re labeled controversial. If that’s what it takes for things to be done right, I have no apologies!

As for being a nonconformist, I don’t conform to evil. So, yes, if being a non-conformist means standing against corruption and injustice, then I wear that label proudly.

People say you’re quite stylish. Would you agree?

I do my best to be neat and presentable. I’m not flamboyant; I’d say I’m a conservative dresser. Don’t appear disheveled: iron your clothes, polish your shoes, and comb your hair. Use moderate perfume—not the loud kind—and maintain good oral hygiene. Keep your appearance clean and dignified.

What’s your take on the current situation in the country?

The economic situation is unfavourable for the masses. Any statistics that don’t reduce poverty are meaningless. The poor are getting poorer, and even the rich are feeling the pinch. Buhari’s administration laid the foundation for this economic distortion. His administration was so inept that his aides were essentially plundering the nation. The current President made a reckless decision on fuel subsidy without properly assessing the situation. That will define his administration. Meanwhile, our leaders are greedy and selfish, living lavishly while the country burns.

The Ondo Governorship election is next month. What do you have to say, sir?

The APC candidate will win by a wide margin. It will be an easy victory for Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. The opposition, PDP, isn’t serious, especially with Agboola Ajayi, who has lost several elections. My advice to Governor Aiyedatiwa is to focus on the southern part of the state, which has long been neglected. Infrastructural development, particularly in Ore and the dualization of the Akure-Igbokoda road, is critical. The state-approved port also needs to be made functional.

What are your thoughts on the Obaship crisis in Akotogbo?

Apart from the legal battles, I can assure you that the elites are working on a resolution that will accommodate everyone’s interests. The Edos (Oke Ado) people have endured much humiliation, and their restraint in the face of injustice is commendable. Historically and archaeologically, the Edos are the authentic founders of Akotogbo, and this is known across Ikale land. The current abnormality will not last forever, and we’re beginning to talk about solutions. If towns like Oke Agbe can have four kings, Ajowa eight, and Akungba two, why can’t Akotogbo have more than one?

We would like to know about how you met your wife. Do you mind sharing that story?

I met her at work! We both started at MTN on the same day and became friends. Eventually, the friendship blossomed into something deeper, and the rest is history. She’s quiet, private, decent, hardworking, and, to me, the most beautiful woman on earth.

What does “Biyi nbo” and “Atupa” mean, sir?

(Laughs) That takes me back! I was involved in school politics and once considered running for the state assembly. “Biyi nbo” was my campaign slogan, meaning “Biyi is coming.” As for “Atupa,” it refers to the local lantern that brings light and dispels darkness. It represents fighting against corruption, injustice, and oppression.

Finally, what are your political plans?

As they say at the University of Lagos, “Politics is life, and life is politics!” Right now, I’m focused on my career, but one thing I’ve learned is to never say never.

Thank you for your time, sir.

My pleasure, always.