Beyond “Irele Do One, Okitipupa Do Two”: Why Ikale Deserves Representation That Works
A political tradition can point the way, but performance must show the destination. As 2027 approaches, the familiar understanding of “Irele do one, Okitipupa do two” is again becoming part of the conversation in Okitipupa/Irele Federal Constituency but beyond the question of where the next representative comes from lies a more important question: what should the people expect from the person entrusted with their mandate? Ikale deserves representation measured not merely by rotation, but by visibility, accessibility, competence and tangible commitment to the people.
Rotation has its place in maintaining political balance and ensuring that different parts of a constituency have opportunities to produce representatives. Yet rotation should never become a substitute for accountability. Every aspirant seeking the mandate of the people should be assessed on what he brings to the table: his capacity to listen, his ability to articulate the concerns of his constituents, his accessibility when people need him, and his preparedness to turn the opportunities of legislative office into meaningful benefits for the constituency.
This is where Prince Adefolayemi Adekanmi, popularly known as Kenny Kunma, enters the conversation. His case is particularly interesting because his relationship with the people did not begin with his decision to seek the House of Representatives. For many years, he has been sponsoring free JAMB registration forms annually for students across the constituency.
Kenny Kunma’s public engagements also present an image of a politician who places considerable importance on human connection. His interactions with young people, families, students and community members show a willingness to engage directly with the people. At a time when constituents increasingly want representatives who can be reached, heard and approached, his accessibility and respectful disposition are qualities that could become important considerations in the 2027 contest.
Representation at the Green Chamber also demands more than physical presence. A member must be able to understand legislative issues, communicate ideas clearly, debate effectively and confidently present the interests of his constituency. Kenny Kunma’s educational background, intellectual disposition and communication ability are therefore central to the argument for his candidacy. The expectation is not simply that he should occupy a seat in Abuja, but that he should possess the capacity to use that seat as a platform for Ikale’s voice, interests and development.
Ultimately, “Irele do one, Okitipupa do two” can remain a reference point in the political history of the constituency, but it should not be the only consideration in deciding the future. The 2027 election provides Ikale with an opportunity to examine every candidate on the strength of character, competence, accessibility, record of service and vision. If Okitipupa’s turn is indeed the next chapter, then the bigger question is not merely who takes the turn, but who can make the turn count. For Kenny Kunma, that is the case being placed before the people: beyond rotation, let representation work.
