The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reinforced its grassroots foothold in Oyo State with the successful organisation of a large-scale empowerment programme by the Ibadan North-West Local Government, held on December 6.
The empowerment initiative, which cut across all wards in the local government area, drew a wide array of participants, including top government functionaries, party chieftains, traditional rulers and other key stakeholders from within and beyond the council.
Addressing the gathering, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ijaya, applauded the Executive Chairman of Ibadan North-West Local Government, Alhaji Abdulrahman Adepoju, for what he described as exemplary leadership and prudent financial management. He expressed admiration at the chairman’s ability to mobilise substantial funds for grassroots empowerment in spite of the financial constraints faced by local governments.
The well-attended event featured notable dignitaries such as Hon. Wasiu Adeleke, Deputy Chairman of the PDP in Oyo State; Hon. Ige Akeem, Chairman of the Local Government Pension Scheme; Hon. Aderemi Ayodele, immediate past Chairman of the Local Government Commission; Alhaji Akeem Azeez, Personal Assistant to Governor Engr. Oluwaseyi Makinde; the Baale of Onireke; the serving Honourable representing Ibadan North-West; the Chairman of Ibadan South-West Local Government; Alhaji Labule Ishola, Special Adviser to the Governor on Ibadan South-West/North-West Federal Constituency; and Hon. Kazeem Fantola, Chief of Staff and PDP Chairman, Ibadan North-West.
Also in attendance were all councillors and supervisory councillors, PDP executives, party leaders, as well as career officers of the council.
The programme began with an opening prayer led by Alhaji Asukuna, after which speakers unanimously commended Governor Engr. Oluwaseyi Makinde for his inclusive governance style and sustained focus on grassroots development across the state.
In his remarks, Hon. Ijaya assured the council of the state government’s continued support, while acknowledging the significant developmental achievements recorded by the Ibadan North-West Local Government administration.
Speaking earlier, Alhaji Abdulrahman Adepoju paid homage to the former chairman who constructed the council hall in 1992, noting that the edifice has now been completely renovated to international standards and formally commissioned by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters.
Beneficiaries of the empowerment programme expressed happiness and appreciation as they received cash grants and empowerment items worth thousands of naira. One of the beneficiaries, Mr. Ridwan Salaudeen, speaking on camera, offered prayers for the success of the current administration and pledged his continued support for the PDP in future elections.
The successful empowerment exercise once again highlights the PDP’s unwavering commitment to people-centred governance and further affirms the party’s standing as the dominant political force in Oyo State.
