Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has responded to the recent comments credited to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Ibrahim Ganduje, about the party’s plans to capture Osun and Oyo states.
Makinde noted that Ganduje might have been “distracted” when making these claims, pointing out that the people of Osun State, who have benefited from the leadership of Governor Nurudeen Ademola Adeleke, would show the APC “pepper” in the upcoming governorship election.
Makinde made these remarks on Wednesday while commissioning several infrastructure projects completed by Governor Adeleke.
He congratulated the people of Osun for supporting Adeleke in the 2022 elections and commended the governor for his delivery of democratic dividends to the state.
Makinde also laude Adeleke for continuing projects inherited from previous administrations, stressing that it is essential for public money to be used effectively for the benefit of the people.
He highlighted the ongoing road projects in Osun, including the completion of a road initially started by former Governor Rauf Aregbesola but finished by Adeleke.
Makinde noted that such actions exemplify the leadership qualities that both he and Adeleke represent in the South-West region.
“The people of Osun know what they are getting. I congratulate them for their wise choice. I also want to commend Governor Adeleke for delivering on his promises. The reward for hard work is more work, so give him more work to do for another four years.”
Makinde also emphasized the importance of completing projects across different political administrations, stressing that public welfare should always come first, regardless of party affiliations.
In his appeal to the people of Osun, Makinde encouraged them to stand behind Governor Adeleke for another term. He noted that the two governors are united in their commitment to progressive policies that benefit their constituents.
Reflecting on the recent political shift in Osun, where the state moved from the APC to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Makinde said, “Two years ago, the people of Osun made a political choice.
They moved from one party to another and chose progress. I believe that some in the APC may have gotten distracted after the Edo and Ondo elections, but the people of Osun will show them that we are resolute.”
He further praised Adeleke for his remarkable leadership, noting that the governor had broken away from the usual political mold by prioritizing the needs of the people. “I promise you my support in the battle ahead,” Makinde added.
Makinde also emphasized the economic significance of Adeleke’s infrastructure projects, particularly the ongoing road development. He predicted that the completed road projects would boost the value of properties in the affected areas, leading to increased economic activity. He also mentioned Adeleke’s success in completing 250 km of lighting projects in Osun, noting that this initiative was vital for the region’s development.
“I started with a 20km proof of consent for the first phase in Oyo State. The second phase was 250 km, and the next phase will be 60 km,” Makinde said, urging the people to continue supporting the light-up projects that would help bring lasting prosperity to Osun.
Makinde however, reiterated the need for visionary leadership to address Nigeria’s economic challenges. He called for continued efforts to implement policies that directly impact the people, while also advocating for true federalism to ensure more equitable governance.
He criticized the current federal system for discouraging growth, noting that the South-West region, under his and Adeleke’s leadership, would continue to set the pace for progress.
Earlier, Governor Adeleke had expressed gratitude for Governor Makinde’s visit and emphasized the strong bond of brotherhood between Oyo and Osun states. The event was attended by senior government officials from both states.