The Coordinator of the Ona Ara Local Government House-to-House Campaign during Governor Seyi Makinde’s re-election campaign in 2023, Honourable Balogun Nurudeen Kolapo, has officially declared his intention to contest for the office of Chairman of Ona Ara Local Government in the forthcoming local government election in Oyo State.
Hon. Balogun, who is seeking the position under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), made the declaration on Wednesday during a well-attended gathering held at Ward 11, Atolu Area, Oremeji Agugu, Ibadan.
The event drew party faithful, political stakeholders, youths, women groups, ward executives, and supporters from different parts of the council area. Among dignitaries present were the Chairman of Ward 11, Alhaji Lawal Alaro Quadri, popularly known as Baba Alaro, members of the ward executive council, Hon. Ojewale Oloyede, Hon. Shaibu Babalola, women and youth leaders, as well as other prominent party leaders in Ona Ara Local Government.
Addressing party members and supporters during the declaration ceremony, Hon. Balogun said his decision to contest was borne out of his desire to bridge the gap between the government and the people by ensuring that the dividends of democracy reach residents at the grassroots level.
According to him, Ona Ara Local Government deserves more developmental projects and people-oriented programmes that will directly improve the living conditions of residents across the council area.
“My intention to run for the office of Chairman of Ona Ara Local Government is to ensure greater development across the length and breadth of the council area,” he stated.
“There is a pressing need to put smiles on the faces of our people by making sure they enjoy real dividends of democracy. Governance should not be far away from the people, and that is why I have stepped forward to serve.”
Hon. Balogun further highlighted his vast political experience, noting that his years of active involvement in political assignments both in Oyo State and Ona Ara Local Government have adequately prepared him for the task ahead.
“I have experience spanning several decades in political activities and assignments within Oyo State and Ona Ara Local Government. I understand the terrain, the challenges, and the expectations of our people. With this experience, I am confident that we can transform the lives of the people positively,” he added.
The PDP chieftain also commended the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde, describing the governor as a visionary and listening leader whose administration has brought remarkable development to Oyo State since assuming office in 2019.
He said Governor Makinde’s commitment to grassroots development and infrastructural renewal has inspired many political leaders within the party to remain committed to serving the people faithfully.
“Governor Seyi Makinde is a listening governor whose leadership style has paved the way for meaningful development across the state. Through his support and guidance, the people of Ona Ara will continue to enjoy true dividends of democracy under my administration,” he said.
Speaking on his developmental agenda for Ona Ara Local Government, Hon. Balogun unveiled several plans aimed at improving infrastructure, healthcare, security, transportation, and economic empowerment within the council area.
He promised that if elected, his administration would embark on the construction and rehabilitation of roads across various communities in Ona Ara to ease transportation challenges and boost economic activities.
He also pledged to establish standard community healthcare centres to improve access to quality healthcare services for residents, particularly women, children, and the elderly.
In addition, the chairmanship aspirant assured youths and women of empowerment programmes designed to create employment opportunities, support small businesses, and improve livelihoods.
“My administration will prioritize the welfare of the staff of the local government while also creating opportunities for youths and women through empowerment initiatives,” he stated.
“We will also strengthen security networks across all communities to ensure the safety of lives and property. Plans are underway to introduce free transportation services from Olorunsogo to Badeku and back, among several other initiatives that will benefit our people.”
Hon. Balogun further disclosed that his administration would explore partnerships with foreign investors and development partners to attract more opportunities and accelerate growth within the local government.
“Foreign hands will also be invited to contribute to the development of Ona Ara Local Government through strategic partnerships and investment opportunities,” he said.
In his remarks, the Ward 11 Chairman, Alhaji Lawal Alaro Quadri (Baba Alaro), described Hon. Balogun’s declaration as a welcome development for the party and the people of Ona Ara Local Government.
He expressed confidence in the aspirant’s leadership capacity, political experience, and commitment to grassroots development, noting that the PDP would rally support for him ahead of the election.
“Honourable Balogun is a worthy and trusted son of Ona Ara who possesses the political strength, experience, and credibility needed to move the local government forward,” Baba Alaro said.
“The party will continue to support him in his quest to emerge as Chairman because we believe he has what it takes to bring lasting development to our communities.”
He also appreciated party members and supporters for their massive turnout at the declaration event and urged them to remain united and committed to the progress of the PDP in Ona Ara Local Government.
The declaration ceremony witnessed enthusiastic support from party faithful, community leaders, youths, and women groups, many of whom expressed optimism that Hon. Balogun’s candidacy would usher in a new era of development and inclusive governance in Ona Ara Local Government.
Observers at the event described the gathering as a strong indication of the growing support base enjoyed by the PDP aspirant ahead of the forthcoming local government elections in Oyo State.
