A governorship candidate from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Oyo State, Olooye Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke (FCA), has committed to implementing the devolution of power by granting autonomy to local governments, asserting that this will promote grassroots development.
Furthermore, he has vowed to enhance traditional institutions by ensuring they receive their 5% allocation promptly from the local government funds.
Olooye Adegoke articulated these commitments during his visit to the Oyo Federal Constituency, which includes Atiba, Afijio, Oyo West, and Oyo East local governments, at the federal constituency party headquarters.
In his welcome address, Mr. Muse Abiola expressed their pleasure in having Olooye Adegoke as the party’s governorship candidate, highlighting that his past achievements are evidence to his capabilities.
He assured Olooye Adegoke of their overwhelming support in the upcoming 2027 general election.
In response, Olooye Adegoke, a Fellow of Chartered Accountants (FCA) and Aare Egbe Omo Balogun of Ibadanland, as well as a philanthropist, expressed his gratitude for the warm reception he received.
He pledged not to disappoint them upon his election as the Governor of Oyo State in 2027.
He emphasized that the autonomy granted to the local government areas is a commendable initiative, one that should be endorsed by all progressive individuals.
He affirmed his commitment to actualizing the autonomy of local governments, stating that it would enable executive officials at the local government level to effectively carry out functions that will boost the development of their respective areas.
“I am a staunch advocate for the autonomy granted to local governments, as they represent the closest tier of government to the populace. The state government is often distant from the grassroots and may not be readily accessible to the local population.
“In contrast, local government administration is more proximate to the people, and if the elected local government executives possess the authority and financial resources to act, the grassroots will be the primary beneficiaries,” stated Adegoke.
Olooye Adegoke further remarked that the grading and maintenance of rural roads are more effectively managed by local authorities than by the state government.
The ADC governorship candidate also asserted that with local government autonomy, traditional institutions would be enhanced, as the 5% share from local government allocations would be disbursed to them in a timely manner.
Olooye Adegoke, who is optimistic about winning the February governorship election, emphasized that his administration, once elected, would ensure fairness, equity, and justice for all citizens and all sections of society.
He provided assurance that the allocation from the Federal Revenue Account to the state is sufficient to facilitate development across all regions of the state.
He pledged to utilize his extensive experience as a financial expert to ensure the prudent management of the government’s revenue.
Adegoke has also committed to implementing significant infrastructural improvements within the state upon his assumption of office as governor in May 2027.
