Leadership and Governance in Osun State
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has made a strong statement regarding his administration’s performance over the past three years. He emphasized that his government has delivered effective governance across all sectors of the state. In a recent address at the Iwude Ijesha carnival in Ilesa, Adeleke challenged his critics to evaluate him based on his records rather than personal opinions.
A statement from Adeleke’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, revealed that the governor expressed this sentiment during the event. He responded to those who questioned his leadership style by asserting that governance is not about having a stern appearance or controlling power. Instead, he believes that true leadership is measured by its impact on the people.
“Leadership is not and should not be a master-servant relationship,” Adeleke stated. “Governance is about making a direct positive impact on the lives of the people. Your delivery as a governor is the best judge of your performance and capacity to lead. Judge me on my records, outputs, and agenda as a governor. That is the best globally accepted parameters to measure leadership.”
He further highlighted that his administration has delivered results across various sectors. “My people, I have delivered across sectors in the last three years. I positively touched all sectors and federal constituencies. My records affirm and validate my capacity and competence to continue to lead our dear state.”
Addressing Developmental Challenges
During his speech, Adeleke reflected on the developmental challenges faced by Ijeshaland in 2022. He mentioned that when his administration took office, the region was experiencing significant issues, including environmental degradation due to illegal mining. The underground water sources were polluted, and the revenue from mining was being siphoned into private pockets instead of the state treasury.
To tackle these issues, Adeleke’s government launched a mining sector reform. “Our administration launched a mining sector reform. Today, Osun’s shareholding within the Segilola Gold Project is secured. Concerted war is being waged on illegal mining. Environmental cleaning up is now a continuous exercise. We launched a river clean-up project manned by tested professionals.”
Infrastructure and Corruption
The governor also addressed the Ilesa Water project, which had become a center of corruption under the previous administration. “The Ilesa Water project, which was a center of corruption under the previous government, was reviewed, and anti-corruption measures yielded positive results. A project meant to provide water supply to the Ijesa people was turned into a channel of self-enrichment by some people from this land. Today, the contract for the water project has been cleaned up, and the project is set to continue after processing by the Islamic Development Bank.”
Beyond infrastructure projects, Adeleke highlighted several other interventions, including the establishment of the University of Ilesa and improvements in road networks. “I call on you all to renew your dedication to our joint mission of taking our dear state to a new, greater height. We must not allow political and developmental setbacks to afflict us again,” he concluded.
Commitment to Progress
Adeleke also spoke about the legacy of the late Adimula, who had made two requests during his campaign. “By the grace of God, we have delivered and even exceeded the demands of our late father.” This commitment to fulfilling promises and exceeding expectations underscores the governor’s dedication to the progress of Osun State.
