By Ọmọsọla Olumide
At a media chat organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) on Tuesday at the Recreation Centre in Ota, Ogun State, the Séríkí of Ota, High Chief Olanrewaju Bashorun, popularly known as Larry Bash, declared his intention to contest for the Ado-Odo/Ota Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives.
He said his political ambition is rooted in genuine love for the people and a commitment to selfless service.
Basorun noted that he would not have joined the race if those in positions of authority had lived up to the expectations of the electorate. According to him, the growing support for his aspiration reflects widespread dissatisfaction with leaders who abandon the people after assuming office.
“We are not afraid of anyone because the people are solidly behind us,” he said, adding that his record of community service speaks for itself.
He pledged inclusive development, with a focus on traditional institutions, market women, artisans and indigent residents. He also decried the neglect of key infrastructure, particularly the technical college in Igbesa, stressing that revitalising such institutions would equip youths with practical skills and reduce unemployment.
Basorun emphasised the need to establish direct partnerships with industries in Ado-Odo/Ota and Igbesa to facilitate job opportunities for young people. He further observed that several poverty alleviation initiatives, including those supported by international development agencies, have not been effectively utilised by previous administrations.
On governance, he stressed the importance of implementing passed legislation, noting that there is little value in bills that are not executed.
He also outlined plans to harness agriculture in Ado-Odo/Ota and Igbesa for economic growth, alongside convening an industrial summit to unlock the area’s potential. Despite its proximity to key infrastructure such as airports, seaports and international borders, he said the area has yet to benefit from its strategic advantage due to poor representation.
Identifying youth unemployment and economic challenges as pressing issues, Basorun said priority would be given to reviving technical education and empowering young people to curb crime and social vices.
He further promised social intervention programmes, including a monthly food bank to distribute staples such as rice and garri to vulnerable residents, as well as support for small-scale businesses and vocational ventures to boost employment.
Drawing inspiration from youth empowerment initiatives in Lagos, Basorun said he plans to replicate and expand such programmes in Ado-Odo/Ota. He also highlighted the role of the Seriki Foundation in supporting market women and small businesses, pledging to scale up such efforts if elected.
“Give me the opportunity, and my people will never regret it,” he said, insisting that Ado-Odo/Ota deserves effective and people-focused representation.
No comments:
Post a Comment