Dr. Ajibola Basiru, the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has announced his decision to challenge Governor Ademola Adeleke for the governorship of Osun State, citing Adeleke’s inability to effectively lead the state toward development.
In a message from his media office on Wednesday, marking the governor’s 65th birthday, Basiru, a former senator, argued that Adeleke is unfit to manage the state’s affairs, primarily due to his frequent travels and a lack of competent individuals to oversee governance in his absence.
The statement emphasized that Osun’s leadership cannot remain in the hands of someone who spends limited time in the state and is surrounded by ineffective aides. Basiru highlighted that his decision to run for governor followed extensive consultations, driven by his desire to address the state’s challenges.
He pointed out that Osun’s agricultural sector is struggling, tourism is experiencing low patronage, the educational system is declining due to dismissed teachers who are not replaced, and the health sector is in poor condition. Basiru also questioned the state’s financial management, urging the government to publicly account for its expenditures over the past 30 months.
Basiru insisted that true leadership involves guiding people toward progress, not just maintaining their desires. He expressed confidence that the state is losing its previous achievements under the current administration. Despite his criticism, he wished Adeleke well on his birthday and clarified that his ambition is not driven by personal animosity.
According to Basiru, his pursuit of the governorship is based on a commitment to democracy and the welfare of the state. He affirmed that the APC respects the democratic process, noting that they accepted the outcome of the last election, where Adeleke emerged victorious.
Sonia Orjiako