Key Takeaways
- The Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Adesuyi Haastrup, offered prayers and support for APC governorship candidate Bola Oyebamiji ahead of the August 15 election.
- The monarch stressed the importance of good governance, cordial state-federal relations, and specifically urged support for the proposed Obokun University in Ijesaland.
- Bola Oyebamiji pledged to lead an administration free from hypocrisy and nepotism, ensuring fair and equitable distribution of state resources across all communities.
- Oyebamiji highlighted his successful tenure at the Osun State Investment Company Limited (OSICOL), where he revitalized the company, expanded its investment portfolio, and acquired significant assets without incurring debt.
OSOGBO, Osun State — In a significant political development ahead of the August 15 governorship election, the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Adesuyi Haastrup, has extended his blessings and support to the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Mr. Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO). The revered monarch expressed his profound hope that divine intervention would grant Oyebamiji success, enabling him to deliver exemplary governance to the people of Osun State if elected.
Monarch's Endorsement and Expectations
The royal endorsement came during a courtesy visit by Oyebamiji and members of the APC Governorship Campaign Council to Oba Haastrup’s palace in Ilesa. During their interaction, Oba Haastrup underscored the critical importance of good governance, emphasizing its direct impact on the populace. He also highlighted the immense benefits derived from a harmonious working relationship between the state government and the Federal Government, citing the ongoing rehabilitation of the vital Ilesa-Ife-Ibadan Expressway as a prime example of such productive collaboration.
Furthermore, the traditional ruler made a passionate appeal to the APC candidate, urging him to prioritize the development of Ijesaland, particularly the realization of the long-anticipated Obokun University. “Our governor-to-be, Senator Francis Fadahunsi has started Obokun University. When you get there, whatever support you can give to make that dream a reality, please help us,” the monarch implored. He added, “Your efforts will not be in vain. God will take you to the Promised Land. I know you will not forget Ijesaland because you are surrounded by patriotic Ijesa people.”
Oyebamiji's Vision for Osun
Responding to the monarch’s counsel and prayers, Mr. Bola Oyebamiji assured Oba Haastrup that, if entrusted with the mandate to govern, his administration would operate with utmost fairness and impartiality. He firmly stated, “Our government will not be guided by hypocrisy or nepotism. We will not concentrate the use of state resources in one community or town. We will govern Osun fairly and responsibly, ensuring that development reaches every corner of our beloved state.”
A Proven Track Record: Revitalizing OSICOL
To buttress his commitment to effective leadership, Oyebamiji meticulously recounted his impressive record in public service. He specifically highlighted his transformative tenure as the Managing Director of the Osun State Investment Company Limited (OSICOL). During his leadership, he successfully revived the struggling company, expanding its investment portfolio significantly and turning it into a viable enterprise.
Oyebamiji proudly recalled how OSICOL, under his guidance, strategically partnered with a company owned by the monarch to acquire valuable properties for the state. These acquisitions included 32 four-bedroom flats in the upscale Guzape area of Abuja and additional prime properties in Ikoyi, Lagos. He also noted the establishment of one of the largest filling stations in Osun State during his tenure, a remarkable feat achieved without resorting to external borrowing. “I revitalised OSICOL from a struggling company into a viable enterprise. We acquired valuable assets for Osun State and achieved these without borrowing a kobo,” Oyebamiji affirmed, showcasing his prudent financial management and strategic acumen.
The interaction between the Owa Obokun and the APC candidate underscores the crucial role traditional institutions play in shaping political discourse and development priorities within Nigerian society. As the August 15 election draws closer, such endorsements and pledges are vital in influencing public perception and voter decisions.
Why This Matters
This event highlights the significant influence of traditional rulers in Nigerian politics, whose blessings and counsel often carry considerable weight among their constituents. It also brings to the forefront key developmental issues, such as infrastructure and education, that are central to the upcoming governorship election in Osun State.