Osun guber: Aligning with central government key to State development — Owa Obokun
By Ismail Azeez
The Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Ajimoko III, has stated that maintaining a cordial relationship with the Federal Government is crucial to accelerating development in Osun State.
The monarch made the remark while receiving the campaign team of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, at his palace in Ilesa.
“I will continue to pray that God answers your prayers. Everyone knows the importance of good governance, and federal support is impactful in any state. That is evident in the ongoing road projects,” the monarch said.
Oba Haastrup commended the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, for facilitating Federal Government approval for the dualization of the Ibadan–Ilesa Expressway through President Bola Tinubu.
He urged the APC candidate, if elected, to support the actualization of the proposed Obokun University, an initiative pioneered by Senator Francis Fadahunsi.
“Oyetola spent millions supporting my emergence, and I have enjoyed support from the APC ever since. He was able to secure the President’s approval for the dualization of the Ibadan–Ilesa road, announcing it on my coronation day. Within two months, work commenced. Concrete roads are durable, and this is a commendable effort by Oyetola and the President,” Oba Haastrup said.
He added, “To our governor-in-waiting, Senator Fadahunsi has initiated Obokun University. When you assume office, please provide whatever support is needed to make this dream a reality. My vision is to have three universities in Ijesaland. Your efforts will not be in vain, and God will guide you to the promised land.”
Responding, Bola Oyebamiji declared that he possesses the requisite experience, competence, and leadership capacity to govern Osun State effectively.
He stated that his three decades in the banking sector and public service career—including roles as General Manager of the Osun State Investment Company Limited (OSICOL), Commissioner for Finance, and Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) have equipped him for the role.
“Osun needs a versatile governor capable of transforming the state comprehensively without nepotism. One of the largest filling stations in Osun State today was established by OSICOL under my leadership without borrowing a kobo. Furthermore, at NIWA, I inaugurated a committee to investigate the root causes of boat mishaps, utilizing data from the National Bureau of Statistics to benchmark international standards. Before my departure, we achieved an 80 percent reduction in boat accidents,” Oyebamiji said.