The Metamorphosis of Hakeem Muri-Okunola … Journey from Lagos to Abuja

The transformation that comes upon a larva and turns it into a butterfly is worth seeing time and again. Once in a while, this transformation is approximated by an individual and brings much awe. So it is with Hakeem Muri-Okunola (HMO), the beloved number-one serviceman in Lagos state. With one step, HMO has gone from being a supreme figure in the Center of Excellence to becoming a supreme figure in all of Nigeria.

Jaws are still creaking open at the latest news of HMO rising beyond the limits of state service. According to the reports, President Bola Tinubu has appointed HMO to be his Principal Secretary. With this appointment, HMO can be described as the carp jumping over the fisherman’s gate to become a dragon.

Following due protocol, HMO’s new position necessitates him to resign from his former position. Thus, HMO is no longer the Lagos State Head of Service, a position he occupied with glee and strengthened his status in the hearts of Lagosians as a calm and considerate character. Of course, the new position is just as exciting for HMO and Lagosians. After all, it places him on the same level as another son of theirs, Femi Gbajabiamila.

Currently, it is said that HMO and Gbajabiamila are Tinubu’s right-hand and left-hand men. With reference to history, HMO can be described as even closer to the president. After all, he was the president’s Personal Assistant when the former was Lagos State governor. HMO was almost one of the reputed ‘Golden Sons’ along with three others, all of whose current positions are up there in the political heavens.