Daniel Agbolade

Governorship candidate of African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Oyo State, Mr.  Olufemi Lanlehin, has assured the people that a government to be led by him come 29 May, 2019, will revamp the local government system in the state, as well as organize free, fair and credible polls in the entire 33 local governments of the state and the local council development areas, to allow them function effectively, in order to "speedily deliver democratic dividends to the grassroots."  

He gave the assurance in Lalupon, Lagelu local government area of Oyo State, while campaigning across Akinyele/Lagelu Federal Constituency, in continuation of his governorship campaigns round the state. 

Lanlehin who berated the state government for neglecting the local councils, which ordinarily as the third tier of government, and the closest to the people, should have been at the forefront of grassroots development, called on the people to vote ADC which, according to him, is the only party committed to improving their welfare, and ensuring their "resources work for them".

He said, "We will ensure the local government system operates as it should, is well funded, and is responsive to the yearnings of the people. With our people centered aspirations and policy thrust, we need a local government that operates well, so our democratic dividends can reach our people quicker."

Lanlehin, who had earlier met Council of Baales and Chiefs in the local government, promised the construction of rural roads and inner city roads, to improve the distribution of farm produce to markets, and bring development to the rural areas. 

The Baales and Chiefs later implored him not to forget the promises made now when he eventually wins the coming governorship election, while he assured them of maximum cooperation, respect and trust, saying, as a man of good conscience, he'll keep close to his chest, all promises made. 

"Our government will embark on people centered contracts, which employs our artisans, provides job for them, and puts money in their pockets. That way, the state's economy is revamped, and prosperity is spread," he  assured.

Senator representing Oyo Central senatorial district, Mrs Monsurat Sunmonu, extolled the virtues of Lanlehin, describing him as "a perfect gentleman, a man of integrity, and a lover of the people." 

She said for a man like Lanlehin, with political experience cutting across the three arms of government, who has a clean record, and is totally free of any corruption charges, supporting him is the best decision any lover of the people can take.

Decampees from APC, ADP, ZLP and PDP numbering about 3,000 were later received into the ADC fold by Lanlehin, who welcomed them into the "winners fold", and assured them of being carried along in the grand scheme of things. 

On his campaign entourage were Director General of his campaign, Mr. Basiru Lawal, his deputies, Mr. Omotayo Oyetunji, Ladi Oluokun and Lanre Agoro, representing Oyo Central, South and North, respectively. Others included the state chairman, Ahmed Ayinla, secretary, Mr. Wasiu Emiola, Mr. Yemi Aderibigbe, ADC Candidate, Akinyele/Lagelu Federal Constituency and Hon Biliaminu Oye, candidate for Lagelu State Constituency. 

The campaign train was later at Moniya, headquarters of Akinyele Local Government, where Lanlehin assured the people of a government that prioritises their welfare at all times.