In a stunning turn of events, the Ifon-Orolu Progressives Union (IPU) has come forward to express their deep disappointment and concern regarding the alleged marginalization of their community and the entire Orolu Local Government Area by the current administration led by Governor Ademola Adeleke. The IPU, representing the voice of the people, has accused the governor of reneging on his campaign promises, leaving the community feeling neglected and undervalued.
Basit Olatunji, the National Publicity Secretary of IPU, voiced the sentiments of the people, stating, “I deeply express my displeasure over the list of commissioner nominees that you recently submitted to the State House of Assembly for screening.” He continued, “We are so disheartened to find out that no son or daughter of Ifon-Osun made the list. We are not happy about this, and we feel we are deserving of a juicy position in your cabinet.”
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The disappointment stems from the fact that Ifon-Osun has been a staunch supporter of the governor’s party, the PDP, and has displayed unwavering loyalty throughout his campaign. With this recent list, however, the community feels let down and undervalued. They believe their support and loyalty have been disrespected and that their contributions have been disregarded.
Moreover, the people of Ifon-Osun argue that the principle of federal character, as recognized by the constitution, should guide the appointment of commissioners. They emphasize that all local governments in Osun State should be represented in the cabinet to truly reflect the diverse interests and needs of the state.
Basit Olatunji took the opportunity to remind Governor Adeleke of his promise to run an inclusive government during his last visit to the local government. The list of nominees, according to Olatunji, fails to portray the promised inclusiveness and raises concerns about the governor’s commitment to fulfilling his assurances. He urged the governor to address these concerns and make the people of Ifon-Orolu happy, highlighting their belief in his capacity and his supposed interest in the welfare of all Osun indigenes.
The release of the list of cabinet nominees by the Speaker of the Osun Assembly, Adewale Egbedun, on July 7, 2023, has since stirred controversy and divided public opinion. The All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state has seized the opportunity to criticize the list, claiming that it demonstrates a lack of leadership capacity on the part of Governor Adeleke. The party went further to caution the citizens of the state not to expect anything productive from the appointed commissioners.
However, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, on the other hand, has rallied behind the governor, defending the credibility and competence of the nominated individuals, describing them as technocrats and professionals who possess the required expertise to drive Osun State forward.
The list has also faced backlash from rights activists and political pundits who have raised concerns over its lack of gender balance. Out of the 25 nominees, only two are female, a blatant violation of the Beijing Convention, which emphasizes the need for a 35 percent affirmative action for women in leadership positions.
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As discussions and debates surrounding this sensitive issue persist, the Ifon-Orolu community anxiously awaits a response from Governor Adeleke. Their hopes remain high, as they believe that their concerns will be duly considered, and steps will be taken to rectify the perceived injustice. The fate of the cabinet nominees and the future of Ifon-Orolu’s representation in the government hang in the balance, leaving both the community and political observers eager to witness how this situation unfolds.