Traditional rulers and members of the Kwara South Development Initiative have strongly criticised the National Assembly representatives from Kwara South, blaming them for the region’s lack of meaningful development and visible progress.
Speaking on behalf of monarchs from the region at a strategic consultation held in Ilorin, the Olupo of Ajase-Ipo, Oba Ismail Alebiosu, condemned the performance of elected lawmakers from Kwara South.
The meeting, themed “Strategic Consultation of Kwara South Leaders: Reawakening the Giant,” brought together stakeholders to assess the state of political representation in the district.
Oba Alebiosu questioned the relevance of the current legislators, saying: “Can anyone see the impact of any member of the National Assembly representing us? They have failed to touch the lives of their constituents. If you invite them for religious and community development purposes, they will not turn up.”
He urged the people to hold representatives accountable in future elections, stating: “In the next elections, if they come to you canvassing for votes with money, do not hesitate to collect their money but vote for the best candidates.”
Also speaking, the Convener of KSDI, Dr. Johnson Adewumi, criticised the region’s representation since the return to democracy in 1999, noting that despite producing five senators and numerous House of Representatives members, their contributions have been negligible.
“The political representation of Kwara South since 1999 is weak and not effective. But we have had five senators and several members of the House of Representatives. Our citizens have chaired several committees in both chambers of the National Assembly with no tangible contribution,” Adewumi said.
“I doubt what the people we sent as representatives are doing. We cannot find any project of value in the entire Kwara South. This is unacceptable. It is futile to think people will change, but we can certainly change ourselves,” he added.
Echoing these sentiments, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairman in Kwara State, Prince Sunday Fagbemi, assured that the party would no longer support non-performing candidates at any level.
“Anybody that does not have good intention for Kwara will no longer occupy elective positions again. God will not allow that to happen again. After God, APC will vet critically the antecedent of all aspiring candidates,” he said. “I know the governor will not impose any candidate on us.”
Representing Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq at the event, Deputy Chief of Staff, Princess Olubukola Babalola, emphasized the importance of unity in achieving sustainable development across Kwara South.
“Together, we can reawaken the giants of Kwara South, ensuring prosperity and security for all. Let us unite in this noble pursuit, working hand in hand to build a stronger, brighter Kwara,” she stated.
She also acknowledged the vital role of local leaders in the state’s progress. “Your resilience and commitment have been the bedrock of our shared progress, and I commend you for your leadership role in shaping a vibrant Kwara South. Your dedication continues to inspire us all,” she said.
Highlighting the administration’s priorities, she noted the ongoing investment in infrastructure to unlock economic potential and enhance quality of life. She called on residents to support government efforts, particularly in strengthening human security.
Addressing the challenge of insecurity, Governor AbdulRazaq, through his representative, assured that no effort was being spared to eliminate threats to peace.
“We are sparing no resources to strengthen security and rout out criminal elements. Security is a collective responsibility, and your partnership and support for the security agencies is vital in this monumental task,” she said.
“I urge vigilance at all times as our enemies have informants and enablers within us. Let us work together to unmask them and keep our communities completely safe and conducive for growth,” she added.
The governor also paid tribute to community-led security efforts, acknowledging the contributions of traditional rulers, local leaders, vigilante groups, and council chairmen. “Our words are with the families of our heroes who died protecting us,” he said.
