•Otunba Bamidele Dada
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Oke-Ogun Council of Elders (OCE), has tasked politicians on peaceful electoral campaigns.
The Yoruba elders also reaffirmed its commitment to the development, security, education and political advancement of the Southwest region, reports Daily Trust.
The Council made this known in a communiqué issued today, after its meeting held at the Bodija, Ibadan, Oyo State residence of its leader, Otunba Bamidele Dada.
Dada, who is OCE President, is a former Minister of State for Agriculture and Water Resources.
The elders deliberated on various issues affecting Oke-Ogun and Oyo State. Among such issues were security, economy, education, politics and social issues.
On security, the elders commended retired Brigadier General Kunle Togun, Primate Samson Ojoawo and Mr. Sunday Adeyemo a.k.a Igboho along with others ‘for their various efforts to ensure that the region is safe and secure for law-abiding citizens.
After appreciating the federal and Oyo State governments as well as security agencies on the successful rescuing of the recent Oriire local government abductees, the Oke-Ogun elders expressed the hope that the governments, security agencies and other stakeholders will ensure that such a thing doesn’t happen anymore. It also expressed the hope that other people in captivity would be freed within the shortest time possible.
The OCE appreciated the federal government under President Bola Tinubu for the Federal University located in Okeho, Kajola local government area of Oke-Ogun and pleaded that needed funds be released to authorities of the institution for its smooth operations.
It called on those occupying public offices to ensure that the best interest of the region is served at all times just as it reaffirmed the long-standing aspiration of Oke-Ogun people to produce a Governor for Oyo State, adding that the objective would be pursued through dialogue, constructive engagement and democratic processes.
The Council enjoined politicians to ensure that peace is maintained as they embark on political campaigns towards the 2027 elections.
The body further resolved to engage political aspirants from Oke-Ogun who have secured tickets to contest forthcoming elections.
According to the elders, the aspirants will be expected to clearly state their programmes and commitments to the development of Oke-Ogun as they begin to seek the people’s mandate.
It called for sustained investment in education, skills development and human capital, particularly to create opportunities for young people in the region.
It also appealed to all sons and daughters of Oke-Ogun, regardless of political affiliation, religion or social status, to unite and work collectively for the advancement of the region.
“It’s in order to achieve this objective that we come up with an Oke-Ogun Development Blueprint (2025-2035). It’s to provide a roadmap for an accelerated development in all ramifications’, the communique noted. The blueprint is to be formally launched anytime soon.
The Council promised to continue to provide leadership and advocacy on issues concerning Oke-Ogun, with particular emphasis on unity, security, education, good governance, political representation and sustainable development.
The council congratulated Barrister Adebayo Lawal who just assumed office as Acting Governor of Oyo State. The Oke-Ogun elders seized the opportunity to commend Governor Oluwaseyi Makinde for the confidence he has in his Deputy and for the seamless handing over of the reign of power to him.
While wishing Governor Makinde an enjoyable vacation, the council prayed for the success of Chief Lawal while he pilots the affairs of the state as acting governor.
The meeting brought together eminent sons and daughters of Oke-Ogun, community leaders, political stakeholders and other distinguished personalities from various parts of the region.
Among such personalities were Chief Iyiola Oladokun, former Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Professor Layi Egunjobi, Sir Oladoja Oladele, Comrade Remi Adegbola, Professor L. Ojedapo, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Federal University, Okeho (FUNATO); Mr. Oluwole Oladokun and Honourable Lanre Agoro among others.
Others at the meeting included Mr. Fasola Olajide, Dr. Babatunde, Alhaji Amusa Adebisi, Honourable Muda Ganiyu, Pastor Favour Adewoyin, Mr. Joel Adebisi Omo Ode, Dr. Oyedepo, Mr. Femi Akano, Mr. David Aremu, Mr. Abioye Afolabi, Mr. Sola Ailako among others.
Comrade Jare Ajayi, Prince Remi Adegbola and Mr. Sola Ailako are members of the communique committee.
