Kwara LG Polls: Offa Must Reject Imposed Candidate, Stakeholders React

Stakeholders Forum for Good Governance in Offa Local Government, Kwara State have urged indigenes and residents to reject imposed candidate ahead of September 21 council polls.

The Coordinator of the forum, Chief Abdulateef Kunle Ajeigbe made this call on Tuesday while addressing newsmen in Offa.

Ajeigbe noted that the Supreme Court’s verdict granting local government financial autonomy can only work by electing the right candidate.

According to him, for Offa Local Government to thrive, we must elect leaders who are accountable, transparent, and dedicated to the community’s development. We must reject imposed ‘yes-men’ and ensure that our local government is led by individuals who genuinely care about our progress and prosperity.

He added: “I speak on behalf of the dedicated and concerned indigenes of Offa, whose unwavering love for our community transcends any partisan interests.

“The Supreme Court’s verdict affirming the financial autonomy of Nigeria’s 774 local governments is a watershed moment, one that has the potential to fundamentally reshape local governance across our nation. However, as we all know too well, Offa Local Government has been in a state of comatose for many years, stifled by the deliberate actions of successive state governments.

“The information we have today is that the sum of over N9 billion accrued to Offa Local Government between January 2019 and June 2024. Yet, there is no sign of development to show for it. The neglect and mismanagement have left our community without the progress and prosperity we deserve. The most vexing issue is that our state governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, has not conducted any local government election in the six years he has been in power. This blatant disregard for democratic principles and local governance must come to an end.”

The Offa Stakeholders Forum Coordinator implored politicians across party lines, concerned compatriots, and respected elders of our community – to take a bold stand.

“It is time for us to take our destiny into our own hands. The upcoming local government election in September presents us with a unique opportunity to reclaim our local government and ensure that it serves the people of Offa, not the interests of outsiders or the state government.” He advised.

“We must support a sound candidate who has a deep love for our community and no attachment to the state government. We need a leader who will harness the ample human resources and capabilities within Offa to make our local government outstanding once again. The autonomy granted to local governments provides us with the chance to deploy our resources effectively, but this will only be possible if we safeguard the election of credible leaders who are truly committed to the well-being of our community.”