Osun state money will stay in Osun - Adeleke
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Osun Governor Ademola Adeleke urged voters to support his re-election, highlighting his administration's development projects and commitment to using state funds for residents' benefit.
- He defended his educational background and the quality of roads constructed under his leadership, dismissing APC propaganda.
- Adeleke also addressed his public dancing, stating it reflects his family's heritage and does not impede his governance capacity, while expressing confidence in victory despite alleged federal intimidation.
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke is seeking re-election, emphasizing his administration's commitment to development and ensuring state funds benefit residents. Speaking at the Arise Townhall Meeting, Adeleke recounted his return to power in 2022 after feeling he was "cheated" in the 2018 governorship election, prompting him to return to school. He assured voters that "Osun State money will stay in Osun" and promised further positive developments.
I was cheated in 2018. I went back to school and returned in 2022.
Adeleke highlighted significant road construction projects initiated by his administration, some of which had been neglected for years. He refuted claims that these roads were substandard, asserting that professional Nigerian engineers were employed and their work was closely supervised. "It is a sin to say that the roads I constructed are substandard. I used professional engineers. I used Nigerian engineers. I supervised their work," he stated, adding that the impact of these projects has been acknowledged by the people.
Osun State money will stay in Osun.
The governor also defended his public persona, particularly his penchant for dancing at events, which has become a notable aspect of his political appearances. He explained that dancing is a hobby and a part of his family's heritage, asserting that it does not affect his ability to govern. "Those that canโt dance are jealous of me. In my family, we have music in our blood. Nobody will stop me from dancing. I dance and work. There is time to dance and there is time to work," he remarked.
It is a sin to say that the roads I constructed are substandard. I used professional engineers. I used Nigerian engineers. I supervised their work.
Adeleke accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of using propaganda to undermine his administration. He also alleged that the APC is leveraging federal power to intimidate voters but remains confident in his victory. Drawing on his background in criminology, Adeleke also presented himself as a security expert equipped to handle the state's challenges, noting the recruitment and training of Amotekun personnel under his leadership.
Those that canโt dance are jealous of me. In my family, we have music in our blood. Nobody will stop me from dancing. I dance and work. There is time to dance and there is time to work. I will teach them how to work if they want.
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.