Exactly a year ago, the political era that spanned for several decades in Kwara State came to an end with the demise of Baba, the great Waziri of Ilorin, Olusola Saraki at the age of 79 years. A new era was birthed, with Bukola Saraki bequeathed with a political structure left behind by the former strongman of Kwara politics.

However, questions have been raised by observers in terms of the sustainability of Baba's legacy thus far as it affects the people and the political structure in the State. How well has the Bukola Saraki era faired in piloting the affairs of the State?

Since taking up the leadership mantle, expectation has remained high for Bukola Saraki to fill the vacuum created by the former second republic Senate leader. Just like a dress rehearsal Bukola Saraki's transition both in leadership and human managerial capacity transcend the imagination of his followers to become a man of the people that he is today by virtue of his leadership style replicate of his father's which many believed is more of a precedence for the young Oloye than a mere coincidence.

Baba Oloye while he was alive established himself as a bold leader who will never failed to add his voice on issues of national discourse. Bukola Saraki, the heir apparent has followed in his footsteps to awaken the sleeping lawmakers by exposing the shady dealings in the untenable fuel subsidy regime. The victimization that came afterwards has neither repressed nor changed his principles in pitching his tent with the masses whenever the occasion arises. Such were the qualities that exemplified Dr Olusola Saraki from others. During the life and times of Baba Oloye, the respect and following he had based on his popularity and acceptance was unrivaled. Political aspirants jostle for Baba’s attention and blessings in order to be accepted by the people and emerge victorious at the polls. He was their anointed leader with the magic touch, the political heavyweight with the proverbial Moses staff to lead his people to the promise land.

This act, Bukola Saraki has mastered replicating such feat to become the king maker endorsed by his people to paddle the boat alongside other progressives to the delight of the opposition parties in the state. He has proven to all beyond reasonable doubt that Kwarans were indeed audacious to have endorsed him as their leader being the next heir apparent. The former governor has demonstrated this with the loads of visitors that besiege the Great Hall for favours and political blessings. He has peacefully conducted several elections in the state and many have emerged into various political offices and top government functionaries at the federal level through his leadership position in the state.

The discipline exhibited by Baba Saraki and inherited by Bukola Saraki who is the current Senator representing Kwara Central, has ensured that the State chapter of the PDP remains as one, evident with the peaceful conduct of the councilorship and Chairmanship congresses recently held. More defection from the opposition party to the ruling party became a norm under Bukola's leadership. Little wonder he was wooed by the opposition gladiators to defect to their party with his large followers, machinery and his existing structure.

Great people encounter challenges in life, but the difference is what makes for an experience – Baba Saraki's life was not an exception; He lived for the people and they loved him in return. He fought poverty, oppression, highhandedness till his last breath. He was a philanthropist per excellence and ensured that his political associates were given a sense of belonging in the day to day affairs of the State. Similarly, Bukola Saraki has thus far maintained an all inclusive government with equal representation across the local government area.

As predicted by Kwarans, Bukola Saraki by antecedents has stepped in perfectly well into those shoes, the people have come to identify with his style of leadership and they are resolute in their support for Saraki dynasty as a harbinger of a good tidings. The medical doctor, former governor, reformist and now a senator on Environment and Ecology representing Kwara Central has redefined leadership among the political class. Under his indefatigable leadership Kwara State has been better position on the map of posterity and the state currently enjoys a large number of federal appointees, a manifestation that summarizes his leadership prowess.

No doubt the post-Olusola Saraki era shows promise of future possibilities, immortalizing him will leave a sense of tradition and remembrance among generations for what he stood for. A scholarship to indigent students in his name and a foundation set up for free medical diagnosis would be a welcomed idea. These, and many more Baba Saraki promoted during his eventful sojourn on earth.

May His Soul continue to rest in peace. Dr Abubakar Olusola Saraki – The Waziri of Ilorin 1933-2012

Wale Bakare is a writer at BailiffAfrica & Founder, MediaFactory