The Oyo State Commissioner for Energy and Natural Resources, Prof. Daud Kehinde Sangodoyin, has faulted a recent commentary by public affairs commentator, Muftau Gbadegesin, describing it as misleading, disrespectful, and unhelpful to the cause of responsible public discourse.
In a strongly worded rejoinder issued on Thursday, Sangodoyin addressed what he termed “false assumptions” contained in Gbadegesin’s commentary on Governor Seyi Makinde’s appointment of Ms. Neo Tlhaselo and references to his (Sangodoyin’s) person.
“Your commentary contained a number of misleading assumptions that call for clarification, not for my sake alone, but in the interest of truth, balanced public discourse, and the respect Ibadan indigenes deserve,” the commissioner stated.
Prof. Sangodoyin dismissed insinuations that he was an outsider “plucked” from Botswana to serve in Oyo State, stressing his deep roots in Ibadanland.
“I am a proud son of Ibadanland, born into the reputable Sangodoyin family. My late father, High Chief L.A. Sangodoyin, was the Ekerin Olubadan of Ibadanland, a position of high honour and ancestral lineage.
“My roots run deep in the soil of Oyo State, and my commitment to its growth and development is not up for question,” he emphasized.
The commissioner further highlighted his academic and professional pedigree, spanning over 30 years of teaching and research across Nigeria, Botswana, and the United Kingdom, before returning home to serve.
Addressing Gbadegesin’s criticism of Governor Makinde’s appointment of Ms. Neo Tlhaselo in relation to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Sangodoyin argued that such choices were based on competence and global relevance, not parochial sentiment.
“Appointments are not about sentiments or geographic origin, but about competence, networks, and vision alignment. AfCFTA is a continental initiative, and having someone with cross-border understanding of trade dynamics is a strategic choice, not a betrayal of local talent,” he said.
He stressed that Oyo State should focus on leveraging international opportunities to build capacity, open markets, and attract investments rather than demonize efforts to position the state globally.
While acknowledging the importance of constructive criticism, Sangodoyin urged commentators to exercise their influence responsibly and with self restraint on issues requiring facts.
“It serves no one to stir public sentiment with half-truths or to diminish the efforts of those who, regardless of background, are committed to a better Oyo State.
“Let us rise above divisiveness and engage on the basis of facts, context, and a shared vision for progress,” he concluded.