Cardinal James Omolaja Odunmbaku popularly known as Baba Eto is one of the most prominent leaders of the Lagos State APC, a member of the Governor’s Advisory Council which is the party’s highest decision making organ and was recently honoured with the MFR national award by President Muhammadu Buhari.
Baba Eto’s political exploits through leading several state wide campaigns and the iconic Mandate political group that has added immeasurable contributions to the fortunes of Lagos State APC and it’s members is legendary and noteworthy.
Cardinal Odunmbaku who is a religious, business and political leader heads organisations that are a reflection of the distinction that Baba Eto symbolize and personifies, even the annual crusade tagged “Pray For Nigeria” by his CCC Christ Ambassador’s Soul Winners Church as always been one of the best organized in the country that is always well attended by not just the high and mighty like Governors but people from all walks of life.
Many have always recalled and attested to the rare gift of Cardinal Odunmbaku’s capabilities to politically organize in ensuring effective mobilisation and organisation of political campaign which earned him the sobriquet of ‘Baba Eto.’ being coined by the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Abiola who appointed him as Special Adviser on Grassroots Mobilisation in the run-up to his ‘Hope 93’ presidential campaign.
The Late MKO Abiola appointed Baba Eto because of his famed ability to effectively organize and conduct grassroots mobilisation and Cardinal Odunmbaku’s political dexterity has continued to be displayed since he was appointed the State Chairman of Bola Ahmed Tinubu Campaign Organisation (BATCO) which has metamorphosed into what is today known as the “The Mandate Group” and also when he headed subsequent gubernatorial campaigns from Raji Fashola to Babajide Sanwoolu that has led to repeated success for the progressive party in Lagos State.
That’s why It came as no surprise but as a delight to many party faithful at Mobolaji Johnson Arena during the Lagos State APC Governorship Campaign Flagoff Progamme yesterday when the erudite and “campaign emeritus” Cardinal James Omolaja Odunmbaku appeared on stage to give a goodwill speech on behalf of the GAC and true to his calling, Baba Eto brought panacea and finesse to the fore and re-established the legendary fact of his mastery of the game which elucidated applause and rejoice from party members present who are hearing the familiar voice of the man that has been synonymous with success regarding political campaign and election in the state.
– Bello Akinkunmi Yakub is a Development Economist And Political Strategist currently serving as media aide to the Chairman of Ojodu LCDA.
