Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has commended the leadership role of the people of the Kwara South Senatorial District, noting that their resilience and commitment have been the “bedrock of our shared progress”.
The Governor, who spoke on Monday in Ilorin, the state capital, at the Kwara South Development Initiative (KSDI) programme, added: “I commend you for your leadership role in shaping a vibrant Kwara South. Your dedication continues to inspire us all,” while restating that his administration remains steadfast in ensuring equitable development across every part of the State, including Kwara South.
He said: “We have prioritized infrastructure to unlock economic potential and improve lives. To date, we have completed at least 63 kilometers of roads in Kwara South alone, with an additional 109 kilometers either under construction or soon to be awarded.
“These include critical routes like Ajase-Ipo to Okeya Ipo; Owode Ofaro to Alabe; Omu-Aran to Oko; Palace Road in Ijagbo; Arandun Township Roundabout, Esie-Oro Township Road; Ijara Isin Sabaja Owa Onire (en route Owu Water Fall); Ibrahim Taiwo Popo General Hospital in Offa; Oke Iyapo to Oba Yero Village along Oke Ode; Ilemona Ojoku Road (to be awarded); Agbamu Ila Orangun Road; Offa Ojoku Afon Eiyenkorin; Orisa Bridge; and Osi Obo Aiyegunle Road, among others.
“Beyond roads, we have awarded contracts for the upgrade of Offa Stadium and Lafiagi Stadium to enhance sports and community engagement in the region. Additionally, we have completed and commissioned the Osi Campus of Kwara State University, a milestone in advancing education and empowering our youth for the future.
“We have many other great things in the works as we deepen our strategic engagement with this important region.”
AbdulRazaq, therefore, urged the people of Kwara South, and Kwarans at large, to continue supporting efforts of his administration in all spheres, particularly in strengthening human security across the state, adding that “we are sparing no resources to strengthen security and rout out criminal elements”.
He added: “Security is a collective responsibility, and your partnership and support for the security agencies is vital in this monumental task. I urge vigilance at all times as our enemies have informants and enablers within us. Let us work together to unmask them and keep our communities completely safe and conducive for growth.
“At this point, I wholeheartedly acknowledge the community-driven initiatives and the sacrifices of everyone in this regard, including the council chairmen, traditional rulers, thought leaders, and our brave vigilantes. Our words are with the families of our heroes who died protecting us.
“Together, we can reawaken the giants of Kwara South, ensuring prosperity and security for all. Let us unite in this noble pursuit, working hand in hand to build a stronger, bright
The Olupo of Ajase-Ipo, Oba Ismail Alebiosu, who spoke on behalf of other monarchs from the region at the “strategic consultation with key stakeholders”, themed: “Strategic consultation of Kwara South leaders: Reawakening the giant”, gave a damning verdict about members of the National Assembly from the zone, adding that poor representation by them is responsible for the stunted growth of the district.
Oba Alebiosu asked: “Can anyone see the impact of any member of the National Assembly representing us?
“They have failed to touch the lives of their constituents. If you invite them for religious and community development purposes they will not turn up.
“In the next elections if they come to you canvassing for vote with money, do not hesitate to collect their money, but vote for the best candidates.”
In his remarks, the Chairman of the state All Progressives Congress (APC), Prince Sunday Fagbemi, pooh-poohed poor representation of the district at the NASS, promising that the party would no longer field non performing candidates at all levels.
He said: “Anybody that does not have good intention for Kwara will no longer occupy elective positions again. God will not allow that to happen again. After God, APC will critically vet the antecedents of all aspiring candidates. I know the governor will not impose any candidate on us.”
On his part, the Convener of KSDI, Dr. Johnson Adewumi, said: “The political representation of Kwara South since 1999 is weak and not effective. But we have had five senators and several members of the House of Representatives. Our citizens have chaired several committees in both chambers of the National Assembly with no tangible contributions.
“I doubt what the people we sent as representatives are doing. We cannot find any project of value in the entire Kwara South. This is unacceptable. It is futile to think people will change, but we can certainly change ourselves.”