A prominent chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Iseyin Local Government Area of Oyo State, Alhaji Waheed Shittu Owonikoko, has expressed high praise for Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, commending his administration’s significant achievements across various sectors.
In a recent exclusive interview with acrossnigerianews.com, Owonikoko who also doubles as the Leader of Shina Peller’s Group in Oyo North Senatorial District, lauded Makinde’s giant strides in administration, governance, and leadership, asserting that the governor’s performance has surpassed that of his predecessors.
Owonikoko pointed to the education sector as a prime example of Makinde’s impactful governance. He specifically highlighted the peaceful and successful transition of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) to a sole-ownership institution for Oyo State, a long-standing issue that the Makinde administration resolved.
He also noted the establishment of a LAUTECH branch in Iseyin, the recruitment of more teachers, and the consistent, timely payment of salaries as major accomplishments that have improved the state’s educational landscape.
In terms of infrastructure, Owonikoko described Iseyin as a new hub town, sequel to the extensive road projects initiated by the current government. He praised the construction and rehabilitation of key arterial roads, including the Iseyin-Ibadan, Iseyin-Oyo, and Iseyin-Ogbomoso roads. Other projects he mentioned include the Ikere Gorge dam road, as well as the Saki carriage road, Saki OYSADEP, and Saki-Ogbooro road.
He also credited the governor with rehabilitating numerous inner roads in Ibadan and elevating the Ibadan Airport and the Adamasingba Stadium to international standards.
Beyond infrastructure, Owonikoko commended Governor Makinde for his inclusive approach to political appointments, noting the significant number of officials from the Oke-Ogun region who have been appointed to key positions. He mentioned the Deputy Governor, the Secretary to the State Government, commissioners, and various board chairmen as examples, highlighting the governor’s commitment to equitable representation across the state.
The PDP chieftain also touched on agriculture, praising the governor’s efforts to revive farm settlements in Fashola, Eruwa, and Ijaiye. He acknowledged these initiatives as positive steps but also offered a word of encouragement, urging the government to empower local farmers further to boost food production and ensure food security for the state’s residents.
Owonikoko concluded by praising Governor Makinde’s leadership style, which he described as firm and wise. He stated that this approach has fostered a climate of peace and security throughout the state. According to Owonikoko, the governor’s swift and decisive actions on security matters have enhanced peaceful coexistence, contributing to a more stable environment for all citizens.
His remarks underscore a growing sentiment of approval among some political figures regarding the Makinde administration’s performance, particularly its focus on infrastructure development, education, and political inclusion. The commendation from a high-ranking PDP member in Iseyin reinforces the perception that the governor’s policies are yielding tangible results that are recognized at the local level.
