We are determined to address inflation of food prices — Ibadan North East LG Chairman
The Local Government Authorities are tasked with the mandate to adapt to local needs and react more quickly to local problems hence only those that are confident and have the courage to make tough decisions can perform excellently as Council Chairmen. In this exclusive interview with Nigerian NewsDirect, Honourable Ibrahim Akintayo, the newly elected Chairman of Ibadan North East Local Government bears his mind on his agenda for development.
Sir, can we meet you?
I’m an astute politician who is very passionate about using my office to positively influence others. I see myself as a visionary with a clear picture of how my constituency should look like which is why I take concrete steps to bring my vision to life.
How do you intend to ensure adequate security in your local government particularly volatile areas like Iwo Road?
Our approach is to sensitize everyone and make them realize that they are equal stakeholders within the local government. We’ve been trying to create a sense of belonging. We are also working on empowering the youths especially those that are idle and tend to engage in crime. I’m a firm believer in the development of youths and I know that once you positively engage them, there would be less crime. As long as they can make ends meet, they won’t succumb to violence.
Many people do not believe in the Local Government System because they think it’s all about embezzlement and financial mismanagement, do you plan to change this perception?
The Local Government is the closest to the grassroots and we are the ones that relate more with the people, the communities, market women and so on. I think the people believe in the system. Moreso, with the style of leadership in Oyo State. Many people have gained confidence in the system. Our Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde has shown a good example of leadership. He has shown us that a lot can be achieved once you put your mind to it. And we are following his footsteps. For example, during the Caretaker period, we were able to achieve much with the meager funds that we were given. Governance now is not about embezzlement but delivering results.
What will distinguish your Local Government from others?
In my own strategy for development, I have three main agendas which are to construct, maintain and protect. These three elements will serve as guidelines in whatever project am doing.
On Agriculture, despite the fact that my local government is an urban area, I’m determined to find solution to the constant rise in the prices of food items. We intend to have meetings with the market women to identify the real problem causing inflation, is it the middlemen or transportation or the increase in the price of fuel. Once we’ve pinpoint the real problem, we can find a lasting solution.
On Education, I’m setting up a committee that is tasked to give a current assessment of the state of primary and secondary schools. The information provided will help me plan and set a timeframe on delivering the projects.
How do you plan to harness the strength of technology in achieving your agenda?
I have already started harnessing technology. So far, the South East Local Government is the only local government that has adopted technology in the area of revenue generation. We’ve created a seamless process whereby citizens can make payments to the local government online. The level of ease we’ve created enables quick payments and unnecessary delay. This also promotes accountability and proper documentation. We also use technology to gather data because we understand that data is an intrinsic element for development.
What are your plans for women empowerment?
Women are very important people in societies and whenever we are engaging in any form of empowerment in the local government, we give high consideration to the women especially the widows. And even the younger ones, we encourage them so they don’t go into prostitution to make ends meet. In the employment of adhoc staff, we give a higher percentage to women. In every activity of the local government, we give great priority to women.
