Mr. Hassan Bashir, a respected Senior Legislative Aide, social commentator, and political influencer from Epe, Lagos, has praised Honourable Barrister Tokunbo Wahab, Lagos State’s Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, describing him as a standout example of what true public service should look like.
In a strongly-worded public statement, Bashir commended Wahab’s style of leadership, highlighting his transparency, responsiveness, and empathy: qualities many say are rare in Nigerian politics today.
“Every once in a while, a leader comes along who reminds us what true service means. Honourable Barrister Tokunbo Wahab is that reminder for Lagos State,” Bashir said.
According to Bashir, Wahab has gone beyond the expectations of his office. He described the Commissioner as more than a political appointee, calling him a model of “responsive governance, transparency, and accessibility.”
He noted that what truly sets Wahab apart is not just the scale or impact of the environmental projects he oversees, but how he treats the people he serves.
“Whether it’s a message of appreciation or a note of criticism, he responds swiftly, calmly, and with facts. He doesn’t shy away from questions, he welcomes them. He doesn’t silence criticism, he clarifies it,” Bashir emphasized.
In an environment where many public officials avoid public scrutiny, Wahab is seen as a breath of fresh air, actively engaging citizens, even when the conversations are difficult.
“In a time when many prefer to stay silent, he stands tall, listening, clarifying, and engaging with both praise and criticism alike,” Bashir added.
“Whether people are applauding the state’s progress or questioning tough policies, he shows up calm, factual, and compassionate.”
A key example of this was the recent demolition exercise in the Oral Estate/Ikota area, which sparked heated reactions online and offline. While misinformation and accusations began circulating, Wahab didn’t retreat from the conversation.
Instead, he came forward with a clear and firm response to corruption allegations:
“Neither I nor any official requested or received any payment – whether ₦1 billion, ₦700 million, or a single kobo. The allegations are false, malicious, and a deliberate attempt to blackmail the government.”
Wahab went on to clarify that the demolition was part of a broader effort to safeguard Lagos residents by unblocking drainage channels and waterways that had been illegally obstructed.
He further showed a human side by allowing affected residents time to relocate, ensuring they were treated with dignity during the enforcement process.
“Because for him, law must walk hand in hand with compassion,” Bashir said, noting Wahab’s balance of firmness and empathy.
Bashir described Wahab’s leadership as a blend of service, accountability, and humanity: qualities he believes define a true servant leader.
“TKW has shown that being a commissioner isn’t just about holding office; it’s about holding trust. It’s about speaking the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable. It’s about standing for what’s right, even when it’s tough,” he stated.
Bashir concluded his remarks with a powerful endorsement of Wahab’s commitment to the state:
“So yes, TKW is a commissioner. But beyond the title, he’s a servant leader, one who proves every single day that real leadership feels like service.”
He signed off with an ode to Wahab’s Lagos-first spirit: “TKW truly loves Lagos, Omo Eko pataki. Greater Lagos secured. Renewed Hope assured.”
