Group Demands APC Zone Oyo Governorship Ticket to Oke-Ogun Region
The Oyo Rebirth Initiative has issued a strong appeal to the All Progressives Congress (APC) to zone its governorship ticket for Oyo State to the Oke-Ogun region ahead of the upcoming elections. This demand is rooted in what the group describes as decades of political marginalisation, highlighting that Oke-Ogun has not produced a governor since the state's creation over 50 years ago.
Call for Equity and Fairness
In a statement released by its Convener, Comrade Yinka Gbadebo, the group emphasised that this request reflects a long-standing quest for equity. Oke-Ogun has made significant contributions to agriculture, the economy, and human capital development in Oyo State, yet it remains underrepresented in top political leadership. The group argues that zoning the ticket to this region is essential to address historical imbalances and promote inclusiveness.
Dismissal of Senator Alli's Comments
The Oyo Rebirth Initiative also dismissed recent remarks by Senator Sarafadeen Alli, who reportedly downplayed Oke-Ogun's chances of producing the next governor. The group labelled these comments as "insensitive and insulting" to the people of Oke-Ogun, warning that such statements could undermine the spirit of unity required in a politically diverse state. According to the statement, dismissing any region's aspirations risks deepening divisions within the APC and across Oyo State.
Emphasis on Leadership Qualities
The group stressed that effective leadership must be built on respect, fairness, and the ability to unify. It asserted that any individual who claims it is not yet Oke-Ogun's turn should be disqualified from consideration, as this shows disregard for the region's legitimate demands. This stance underscores the importance of ethical governance and political accountability in the selection process.
Alternative Candidate Mentioned
While reiterating its primary demand for Oke-Ogun to produce the next governor, the group acknowledged that if the APC chooses otherwise, a more experienced and unifying figure like Senator Teslim Folarin would be a preferable option. It described Folarin as a seasoned politician with broad acceptance across the state and a proven track record of party loyalty, suggesting he could help bridge divides if Oke-Ogun is not selected.
Warnings and Appeals
The Oyo Rebirth Initiative urged political stakeholders to prioritise fairness and justice in their decision-making, cautioning that failing to zone the ticket to Oke-Ogun would amount to continued marginalisation. Additionally, it called on the Olubadan to remain neutral in political matters, advising against actions that could be perceived as favouritism, which might exacerbate tensions.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
In conclusion, the group insisted that the agitation for equity in Oyo State's political structure can no longer be ignored, with the rallying cry: "the time for Oke-Ogun is now." This statement highlights ongoing debates within Nigerian politics about regional representation and the need for inclusive governance to foster stability and progress.
