The Newly sworn-in Executive Chairman of Ejigbo LCDA, Hon. Aare Taoheed Adebayo Taiwo receiving his certificate from the Lagos State Governor, Babajiide Olusola Sanwo-Olu on Sunday 27th July 2025.
The ballots have spoken, the people have stirred,
In Ejigbo’s heart, democracy purred.
Today, we stood, not merely to vote,
But to sail with hope on a civic boat.
We cast our voice in silence and ink,
A moment to pause, reflect, and think...
Of dreams we share, of roads unpaved,
Of promises made and homes to be saved.
Now that the tide has ebbed and flowed,
And winners wear their victor’s robe,
Let it be known from shore to shore,
You’re called to serve, and then, so much more....
With purpose pure and vision wide,
May you lead with truth and none to hide.
Let honour be your daily guide,
And let no voice be cast aside.
To you, our new custodians true,
I raise my pen and hopes anew.
We stand with you, both firm and proud,
A people resilient, a voice unbowed.
May your steps be lit by wisdom’s flame,
And may justice dance in your noble name.
For Ejigbo’s sons and daughters dear,
The time is now...the path is clear.
May the spirit of our ancestors strengthen your hand,
As you build and lead this cherished land.
Ejigbo Mekun, the land of the gallant royal tigers,
Where shadow dancers were born as brave fighters.
Undying spirits, fortified to check the excesses of infamous aggressors,
here, in the royal land of my ancestors.
Now a new day dawns, let greatness grow...
Àṣẹ, Ire o, let Ejigbo glow!
©Prince Adeola Goloba 2025
My Reflection on the Themes and Messages in the above Poem:
In writing this poem, I sought to capture the powerful moment of democratic transition in Ejigbo Awori, Lagos State. At its core, “A New Dawn Rises” is a reflection on civic responsibility, cultural pride, and the hopes we share as a people.
This piece celebrates our collective action i. e the quiet strength in casting a vote and the loud message it sends. It speaks to the idea that democracy isn’t just about elections; it’s about purposefully participating in shaping the future of our community. By voting, we are not only choosing leaders; we are reaffirming our commitment to progress, accountability, and justice.
Prince Adeola Goloba after casting his vote on Saturday 12th July 2025 during the Lagos State Chairmanship and Councillorship elections in Ejigbo LCDA.
This poem also serves as a call to those elected, a reminder that leadership is a sacred trust. I emphasize the need for honesty, transparency, accountability and inclusiveness. Every voice, especially the marginalized, matters. True leadership should be rooted in service and guided by wisdom.
The New Executive Chairman flanked by his Vice, Councillors and Council Leaders.
Cultural identity plays a significant role in this piece. As a proud descendant of Ejigbo’s founding and paramount royal lineage Fadu Onimewon, I wove in references to our ancestral strength, bravery, and resilience. From the “gallant royal tigers” to the “shadow dancers born as brave fighters,” the poem honours the spirit of our forebears and reminds us of the legacy we are duty-bound to protect.
Ultimately, this is a hopeful poem. It envisions a brighter tomorrow, and one, where justice flourishes and unity prevails. It is a poetic blessing to our new leaders and a call to action for all of us to stand firm, stay proud, and continue building a more vibrant Ejigbo.
Àṣẹ. Ire o!
©Prince Adeola Goloba 2025
Photo Credit:
1: Public Affairs Unit, Ejigbo LCDA.
3: Comrade Onadeko Damilola Edwards
