Exclusive Interview: Sunshine Nation Media Team with Hon. Ajayi Michael Abayomi (Conciliator)
*The Sunshine Nation Media Team* sat down with Hon. Ajayi Michael Abayomi, popularly known as Conciliator, the Councillor representing Okeigbo Ward One. In this conversation, he shares his journey from student politics to community leadership, his vision for Okeigbo, and his thoughts on the future of governance in Ondo State.
*Sunshine Nation:* Good morning, Honorable Councilor. Thank you for granting us this opportunity to speak with you today. As the elected representative of Okeigbo Ward One, your role is vital in shaping the development and welfare of our community. Can you tell us about your background?
_Hon. Abayomi_ : My name is Hon. Ajayi Michael Abayomi, also known as Conciliator. I am the Councillor representing Okeigbo Ward One, to the glory of God. My journey into politics began as a student leader, from primary school through university. At the University of Ibadan, I served as Chief Whip of Independence Hall Legislative House, where I earned recognition as Best Dressed and Most Consistent Honourable.
I later became Southwest Chairman of Philosophy Students Nigeria, Electoral Chairman of Independence Hall, P.R.O of Ondo State Students at UI, President of the Philosophy Students Union, Chairman of the Council of Presidents, and Secretary at UI. I also served as Speaker of SRC NAOS Okeigbo. Beyond student politics, I was Secretary of Odera CDA in Ikorodu, Lagos, which was recognized as the best CDA.
*Sunshine Nation* : What motivated you to enter public service and represent the people of Okeigbo Ward One?
_Hon. Abayomi_ : The love I have for my community, Okeigbo. You cannot isolate yourself and expect things to be right. I have been contributing through educational support and human capital development. My vision is to make Okeigbo great—a movement I have been involved in for a long time.
*Sunshine Nation* : Since assuming office, what key projects or initiatives have you implemented that you believe have made the greatest impact on residents?
_Hon. Abayomi_ : To the glory of God, I have facilitated the rehabilitation of Obada Market in Okeigbo. I have also championed women and youth empowerment programs, including Owo Arugbo (financial support for the elderly) and food support initiatives for the people of my ward.
*Sunshine Nation* : As the general election approaches, what do you see as the biggest political issues facing APC in Ondo State?
_Hon. Abayomi_ : My party, APC, is a formidable one. As far as I am concerned, I don’t see any challenges facing the party.
*Sunshine Nation* : Some people describe you as a political protégé of Hon. Folagbade, others associate you with Dr. Abbas, and some say you are closely linked to Hon. Festus Adefiranye. Can you share with us your journey, how you moved from student politics into mainstream politics, and the influences that shaped your path?
_Hon. Abayomi_ : Hon. Folagbade is a leader and brother. Dr. Faremi Abass is also a very good brother, and together we have shaped many lives through community development.
Hon. Festus Ayodele Adefiranye, the KOSELERI of Okeigbo, is a human developer who reshaped my political life and beliefs. As a Member of the Federal House of Representatives, he has performed beyond expectations in education, health, human capital development, and infrastructure. Many youths have been gainfully employed in ministries and parastatals through his efforts.
*Sunshine Nation* : Honorable Councilor, let us imagine for a moment that the APC presidential, senatorial, House of Representatives, and House of Assembly tickets were all placed in your hands. How would you distribute them, and what guiding principles would shape your choices?
_Hon. Abayomi_ : Thank God it’s just an imagination. But sincerely, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has done wonderfully well and deserves to be returned to complete the job and face the tasks ahead. Hon. Ayodele Adefiranye has performed excellently and should be returned to the House of Representatives. One good term deserves another. His name is on the lips of everyone in the constituency, as seen in the last Southern Senatorial District Stakeholders meeting held in Ore on April 19, 2026.
*Sunshine Nation* : Some people say you rose to office through what they call a ‘last‑minute anointing.’ As the House of Assembly contest approaches, should the people expect a similar last‑minute anointing, or do you have a different strategy this time?
_Hon. Abayomi_ : Everything a man becomes in life is by God’s ordinance. I am still a Councillor representing Okeigbo Ward One, having spent just a year and some months. My focus is on ensuring Hon. Festus Adefiranye returns to the Federal House of Representatives.
*Sunshine Nation* : Does it mean you’re not interested in the contest?
_Hon. Abayomi_ : Everyone deserves uplift, but I am still a Councillor. My task ahead is to support Hon. Festus Adefiranye’s return to Abuja.
*Sunshine Nation* : What advice would you give to the youth of this town who aspire to take part in politics and leadership?
_Hon. Abayomi_ : It is good to be a small part of a big thing than to be a big part of a small thing. Youths should remain focused and prayerful. No one grows without a good leader like Hon. Festus Adefiranye, who develops followers—I am a living example. Consistency is key in politics. Seeking gains before sacrifice cannot take anyone far. Perseverance and patience are essential. Youths must be useful and contribute meaningfully to society.
*Sunshine Nation* : Honorable Councilor, we sincerely appreciate the time you have taken to share your thoughts, experiences, and vision with us today. Your insights into governance, community development, and the future of Okeigbo Ward One have been enlightening. On behalf of the Media Team of Sunshine Nation, we thank you for your service and for granting us this opportunity. We wish you continued success as you work toward the progress of our town and prepare for the challenges ahead.
_Hon. Abayomi_ : Thank you, and God bless your organization
