The Oke-Ogun Council of Elders in Oyo State has reaffirmed its commitment to the development, security, education and political advancement of the region, while urging politicians to maintain peace as campaigns intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The council made the declaration in a communiqué issued on Tuesday after its meeting held at the residence of its leader and former Minister of State for Agriculture and Water Resources, Dada Bamidele, in Bodija, Ibadan North Local Government Area.
The communiqué was signed by Jare Ajayi, Remi Adegbola and Sola Ailako.
The elders said their meeting focused on critical issues affecting Oke-Ogun and Oyo State, including security, education, the economy, politics and other social concerns.
On security, the council commended individuals and government authorities who had contributed to efforts to protect residents across the region.
It specifically acknowledged the contributions of retired Brigadier General Kunle Togun, Primate Samson Ojoawo and Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Igboho, among others, towards improving security in Oke-Ogun.
The council also expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, Oyo State Government and security agencies for the successful rescue of residents abducted recently in Oriire Local Government Area.
The elders, however, urged the authorities to intensify efforts to prevent a recurrence of such incidents and ensure that other Nigerians still being held in captivity are released as soon as possible.
“We also express our hope that other people in captivity would be freed within the shortest time possible,” the council said.
Elders Seek Support For Federal University
The Oke-Ogun Council of Elders also appreciated President Bola Tinubu’s administration for establishing the Federal University in Okeho, Kajola Local Government Area.
The council, however, appealed to the Federal Government to release the necessary funds required for the institution to operate effectively.
It stressed that sustained investment in education remained critical to the development of the region, particularly in creating opportunities for young people.
The elders further called for increased investment in skills development and human capital development across Oke-Ogun.
Oke-Ogun Governor Ambition
A major issue raised at the meeting was the region’s longstanding aspiration to produce the governor of Oyo State.
The council reaffirmed that the objective would be pursued through dialogue, constructive engagement and democratic processes.
It said public office holders must always prioritise the interests of the region and work towards improving the welfare of its people.
The council also resolved to engage political aspirants from Oke-Ogun who have secured tickets to contest various elective positions in forthcoming elections.
According to the elders, the aspirants would be expected to clearly outline their programmes and commitments to the development of the region as they seek the support of voters.
The council urged politicians to conduct their campaigns peacefully and avoid actions capable of creating division within the region or the state.
“We enjoin politicians to ensure that peace is maintained as they embark on political campaigns towards the 2027 elections,” it said.
Development Blueprint
The elders disclosed that they had developed an Oke-Ogun Development Blueprint covering the period from 2025 to 2035.
According to the council, the blueprint is designed to provide a roadmap for accelerated development across different sectors of the region.
The document, it said, would address issues including education, security, good governance, political representation, unity and sustainable development.
“It is to provide a roadmap for accelerated development in all ramifications. The blueprint is to be formally launched anytime soon,” the council stated.
The elders also appealed to sons and daughters of Oke-Ogun, irrespective of political affiliation, religion or social status, to unite and work collectively for the advancement of the region.
They pledged to continue providing leadership and advocacy on issues affecting the zone.
Appeal For Political Unity
With the 2027 elections approaching, the council warned against allowing partisan politics to undermine peace and development in Oke-Ogun.
It urged political actors to place the collective interests of the region above individual ambitions and partisan differences.
The elders said political aspirants seeking the mandate of the people must be prepared to explain how their policies would address the region’s development challenges.
They also emphasised the need for greater cooperation among political stakeholders to ensure that the region derives maximum benefit from its political participation.
Elders Congratulate Acting Governor
The council congratulated Barrister Adebayo Lawal on his assumption of office as Acting Governor of Oyo State.
The elders commended Governor Seyi Makinde for the confidence he reposed in his deputy and described the transfer of power as seamless.
While wishing Makinde an enjoyable vacation, the council prayed for the success of Lawal as he oversees the affairs of the state.
The meeting was attended by prominent sons and daughters of Oke-Ogun, community leaders, political stakeholders and other distinguished personalities.
Among those present were Fasola Olajide, Babatunde, Amusa Adebisi, Muda Ganiyu, Favour Adewoyin, Joel Omo-Ode, Oyedepo, Femi Akano, David Aremu, Abioye Afolabi and Sola Ailako.
Others included former Deputy Governor Iyiola Oladokun, Layi Egunjobi, Oladoja Oladele, Remi Adegbola, L. Ojedapo, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University, Okeho, Oluwole Oladokun, and Lanre Agoro.
The council said it would continue to engage relevant authorities, political actors and stakeholders in pursuit of the region’s development agenda, with particular emphasis on unity, security, education, good governance and sustainable development.