Oke-Ogun development, our priority, council of elders say

The Oke Ogun Council of Elders (OCE) has reaffirmed its commitment to the development, security, education and political advancement of the region.

The council stated this in a communiqué after its meeting at the residence of its president and former Minister of State for Agriculture and Water Resources, Bamidele Dada, in Bodija, Ibadan, the Oyo State Capital, .

The meeting was attended by prominent indigenes of Oke-Ogun, including former Oyo State deputy governor, Chief Iyiola Oladokun; Professor Layi Egunjobi; Sir Oladoja Oladele; Comrade Remi Adegbola and Professor L. Ojedapo, among others.

The elders congratulated Adebayo Lawal, on his assumption of office as acting governor of Oyo State, commending Governor Seyi Makinde for the seamless transfer of power.

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On security, the council commended Brigadier General Kunle Togun, held Primate Samson Ojoawo and Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Igboho, for their efforts towards protecting residents.

It also praised the federal and state governments, as well as security agencies for rescuing the recent Oriire abductees.

It urged the authorities to intensify security efforts, prevent further abductions and secure the release of persons still in captivity.

The council expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu’s administration for establishing a federal university in Okeho, Kajola Local Government Area, and appealed for adequate funding to enable the institution to operate effectively.

The body also urged public office holders to protect the interests of Oke-Ogun, as it reaffirmed the region’s aspiration to produce the next governor of the state, stressing that the goal will be pursued through dialogue, democratic processes and constructive engagement.

The council resolved to engage Oke-Ogun aspirants, who have secured party tickets for the coming elections, asking them to present clear programmes and commitments to the region’s development.

It called for greater investment in education, skills acquisition and human capital development to expand opportunities for young people.

It appealed to Oke-Ogun indigenes, regardless of political, religious or social differences, to unite for the region’s progress.

The council said its development agenda is anchored on the Oke-Ogun Development Blueprint (2025–2035), a roadmap for growth across various sectors, and is expected to be formally launched soon.

The group reiterated its commitment to leadership and advocacy on issues affecting Oke-Ogun, with emphasis on unity, security, education, good governance, political representation and sustainable development.