In a show of open support ahead of the forthcoming Local Government election in Oyo state, Akorede Community Development Council (CDC), Ireakari, and Lanioka communities have endorsed the candidacy of Engineer Akeem Olatunji for the office of the Executive Chairman.
The endorsement by the CDC and other two major communities follows Olatunji’s track record as a community development facilitator, youth development advocate, and thorough grassroots mobilizer.
Speaking at the one year anniversary after official coronation as Lanioka chiefs yesterday in Oluyole, the Agbaakin Lanioka, Alhaji Taofeeq Ademola Ganiyu said Olatunji has proved himself worthy as an illustrious son of Oluyole by his track records of selflessness amd commitment to the development of the council and as such has been officially adopted and endorsed as the preferred choice come April.
According to Alhaji Ganiyu, Olatunji’s endorsement by Lanioka community comprising of not less than five populated smaller communities under it holds significant weight in the political landscape of Oluyole as the next council poll approaches adding that it represents a broad consensus from diverse segments of residents of Lanioka.
“The fact that multiple communities, who often have disparate interests and priorities, can rally behind Olatunji speaks volumes about his ability to bridge gaps and unify different factions for our common cause and feel very proud to play our part in the unfolding events that will eventually culminate into Olatunji’s electoral victory.” Alhaji Ganiyu said.
Earlier in his remarks, the State Treasurer of Oyo state Park Management System (PMS), Chief Kamorudeen Idowu popularly called ‘Olowogeesi’ said Olatunji’s endorsements by Lanioka ahead of the coming council poll demonstrates that the former Publicity Secretary of PDP in Oyo state has successfully developed a robust network of supporters across various wards in the local governments.
He noted that such support indicates that his wide-ranging appeal and popularity particularly his brand of politicking has remained attractive to political stakeholders across various wards and communities in Oluyole while assuring that the people of Lanioka has adopted Olatunji’s election as their personal project that must not fail any cost.
“It is clear that Olatunji’s reputation precedes him, as these communities trust in his leadership capabilities and believe in his vision for inclusive governance. It is safe to say Akeem Olatunji, who is also my personal friend has adapted all the visionary approach and genuinely progressive style of Governor Seyi Makinde’s politics into his every move making him a very saleable brand, and we’re more than ready to see to his electoral victory by God’s grace.” ‘Olowogeesi’ said.
Similarly, the leadership of Ireakari estate in Ward 5 of Oluyole Local Government who held a twin event of road commissioning and support fund raising for community development commended Olatunji for his liberal style of politics stressing that good governance and grassroots development have nothing to do political affinity.
While assuring Olatunji of their support the community leaders urged the PDP chairmanship candidate not to derail from his promises and commitments to grassroots development as well as run an inclusive open door style of government.
Also, the overall leader of CDC in Akorede LCDA under Oluyole Local Government comprising of five wards, Alhaji Gbolagade Raimi, who announced Olatunji’s endorsement as their preferred candidate ahead of the coming council poll in a meeting convene by Oluyole Local Government Vice Chairman and Political Head of Akorede LCDA, Hon Tunde Ayoade, with the Executives and representatives of various communities in attendance described Olatunji as a friendly, peaceful, and accessible individual, who is naturally selfless and has demonstrated a very high level of empathy to various communities in time of distress assuring that the coming Council poll remains a time to reward Olatunji’s good deeds and acts of benevolence.
Olatunji, who was accompanied by his campaign Director-General, Architect Salam Azeez, PDP Councillorship Candidates and other PDP stalwarts, expressed gratitude to Governor Seyi Makinde for the opportunity given him to serve his people at the grassroots as well as leaders of various communities for their public show of endorsements. He maintained that: “the separate events that culminated into my endorsement have clearly demonstrated the love and passion for PDP and the assurances of an unwavering support for me at the coming council poll, I assure you that I will strive hard to make government presence visible across the 10 wards in Oluyole that the whole state will know that Governor Seyi Makinde has replicated himself in our local government.”