2027: Security, LG autonomy top my agenda for Ogun, says Adebutu

Oladipupo Adebutu, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate for Ogun State, has declared that security, local government autonomy, rural development, agriculture, education, and economic empowerment will be the pillars of his administration if elected in 2027. Adebutu articulated this people-centered governance agenda during an interactive session with journalists in Abeokuta, aiming to tackle the state's developmental hurdles.

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security is the first item on our agenda because without security, nothing else can thrive. We cannot build a prosperous society when people live in fear.

Adebutu identified insecurity as Nigeria's most pressing challenge, emphasizing that sustainable development is impossible without ensuring the safety of lives and property. "Security is the first item on our agenda because without security, nothing else can thrive. We cannot build a prosperous society when people live in fear," he stated.

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It is troubling that many police stations lack basic infrastructure such as electricity and operational vehicles. For years, I have supplied diesel and petrol to support security agencies and subsidise some of their operations from my personal resources. This should not be the responsibility of private citizens.

He lamented the inadequate state of facilities for security agencies, revealing personal interventions such as providing fuel, repairing vehicles, and supporting operations from his own resources. Adebutu noted that many police stations lack basic infrastructure like electricity and operational vehicles, deeming it unacceptable for private citizens to bear such costs.

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The decline began when local government elections became heavily controlled at the state level. As local governments lost their independence and accountability to the people, their effectiveness diminished.

Furthermore, Adebutu stressed the significance of local government autonomy in enhancing service delivery and accelerating development at the grassroots. Drawing on his experience as a former Commissioner on the Ogun State Local Government Service Commission, he argued that excessive state control has rendered local councils ineffective. He believes that empowering local governments to function independently and transparently is crucial for Nigeria's meaningful progress.

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The consequences have been severe; weakened institutions, poor service delivery, inadequate infrastructure and limited grassroots development. If Nigeria is to make meaningful progress, local governments must be empowered to function independently, transparently and responsibly.