By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta
The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State, Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu, has reiterated his commitment to prioritise local government autonomy, grassroots development and strategic investment in border communities if elected in the 2027 governorship election.
Adebutu made the pledge during a PDP campaign rally in Remo, Ogun State, where he outlined key elements of his ‘Itura De’ agenda, which he said was designed to return power to the people and strengthen development at the grassroots.
The PDP candidate said local governments should be empowered to address the specific needs of their communities and determine development priorities without undue interference.
According to him, functional local government autonomy would enable grassroots administrations to respond more effectively to the concerns of residents and deliver projects that directly improve their living conditions.
He said: “Local governments must be empowered to address the needs of their people and determine the development priorities of their communities. Governance should be felt at the grassroots, where its impact matters most to ordinary citizens.”
Adebutu also highlighted the importance of developing border communities, arguing that targeted investments in infrastructure and economic activities could unlock their potential and strengthen their contribution to Ogun State’s economy.
He noted that Ogun’s proximity to Lagos presented significant opportunities for economic integration, trade and investment, adding that the state could benefit from stronger economic connections with its neighbouring commercial hub.
According to him, improved infrastructure and deliberate economic planning would help border communities attract investment, create employment opportunities and contribute more meaningfully to the state’s overall development.
Also speaking at the rally, the PDP’s Ogun East senatorial candidate, Alhaji Abdul-Hameed Femi Omotayo, called for visible and measurable development across the senatorial district.
Referring to his visit to Sagamu two days earlier, Omotayo said his observations during the visit had raised concerns about the town’s development trajectory.
He criticised what he described as inadequate progress, using a metaphor to contrast urban development with the condition he said he encountered in the town.
“The current administration has turned town to bush instead of turning bush to town,” he said.
Omotayo’s remark underscored his concerns about the pace of development in Sagamu and the need for projects that residents can see and feel in their daily lives.
He maintained that Ogun East needed tangible results in infrastructure, employment generation and the creation of opportunities for residents, particularly young people.
The senatorial candidate also stressed the importance of addressing challenges affecting economic activities across communities in the district.
Poor road infrastructure, limited employment opportunities and inadequate access to economic opportunities remain important issues in discussions about community development. Deteriorating roads can increase transportation costs and impede the movement of goods, while a shortage of jobs can restrict the options available to young people.
