The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Osun State, Bola Oyebamiji, has pledged to integrate non-indigenes and various interest groups into his administration if elected on August 15. He made the commitment during a public engagement with the Arewa Community in Ibokun town, Obokun local government area, where he outlined plans for an inclusive governance model.
Represented by Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, a former special adviser to ex-Governor Adegboyega Oyetola on Civic Engagement, Oyebamiji emphasized that his administration would adopt a structural approach to ensure participatory governance that embraces all social strata. He said the framework would bridge the gap between government and grassroots communities, ensuring that public policies are shaped by direct citizen input and needs.
Oyebamiji reiterated that citizens would be actively involved in policy formation and implementation, with a focus on harnessing the state’s potential in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals to improve the lives of residents. He pledged to sustain people-oriented programmes, engage with diverse groups—including farmers’ associations, trade unions, artisans, and non-indigene communities—and treat them as critical stakeholders.
The Arewa Community leader in Obokun, Alhaji Ayuba Mohammed, expressed appreciation for the previous APC administration under Oyetola, citing regular engagement, support, and effective resolution of communal issues through the Office of Civic Engagement. He confirmed the community’s backing for Oyebamiji, recalling how the administration had helped resolve disputes, provided land, and supplied palliatives to their areas.
Mohammed appealed for a more business-friendly environment and urged Oyebamiji to maintain strong ties with the community. “We are pledging our unalloyed support for him, and we shall demonstrate it at the poll,” he stated.
Oyebamiji’s outreach to non-indigene groups reflects a strategic push to broaden his electoral base ahead of the governorship election, as the APC seeks to retain power in Osun State.
