2027: Security, LG autonomy top my agenda for Ogun, says Adebutu

…..laments poor state of police facilities, advocates rural development, agricultural revolution

By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Ogun State during the forthcoming elections, Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu, on Monday declared that security, local government autonomy, rural development, agriculture, education and economic empowerment would form the cornerstone of his administration if elected governor in 2027.

Adebutu stated this during an interactive session with journalists in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, where he outlined what he described as a people-centred governance agenda aimed at addressing the state’s developmental challenges.

According to him, insecurity remains Nigeria’s most critical challenge, stressing that no society can achieve sustainable development without guaranteeing the safety of lives and property.

Adebutu said, “security is the first item on our agenda because without security, nothing else can thrive. We cannot build a prosperous society when people live in fear.”

The PDP chieftain lamented the poor condition of facilities available to security agencies, revealing that he had personally intervened over the years by providing fuel, repairing vehicles and supporting the operations of security formations.

“It is troubling that many police stations lack basic infrastructure such as electricity and operational vehicles. For years, I have supplied diesel and petrol to support security agencies and subsidise some of their operations from my personal resources. This should not be the responsibility of private citizens,” he stated.

Adebutu disclosed that he had invested close to ₦20 million in the installation of solar-powered streetlights across several communities, describing street lighting as a vital tool for crime prevention.

“Where there is light, there is improved security. Criminal activities thrive in darkness, while illuminated streets create safer environments for residents and businesses. Every community deserves access to a minimum standard of street lighting.”

Speaking on grassroots development, Adebutu identified local government autonomy as a critical factor in improving service delivery and accelerating development across communities.

Drawing from his experience as a former Commissioner in the Ogun State Local Government Service Commission, he argued that local councils had gradually become ineffective due to excessive state control.

“The decline began when local government elections became heavily controlled at the state level. As local governments lost their independence and accountability to the people, their effectiveness diminished.”

“The consequences have been severe; weakened institutions, poor service delivery, inadequate infrastructure and limited grassroots development. If Nigeria is to make meaningful progress, local governments must be empowered to function independently, transparently and responsibly.”

While describing rural development as key to economic growth, Adebutu called for deliberate investments in rural communities through improved roads, healthcare, electricity, education and security infrastructure.

He warned against unchecked urban migration, insisting that balanced development would reduce pressure on major cities.

“A significant percentage of our people live in rural areas. If we provide basic amenities and opportunities, many residents will choose to remain in their communities, rather than migrate to already congested urban centres.”

On agriculture, Adebutu described the sector as one of Nigeria’s greatest opportunities for wealth creation and youth employment.

He said agricultural initiatives introduced after the last election had yielded positive results, particularly among youths involved in the cultivation of high-value crops.

“I have seen firsthand how agriculture can change lives. With modest support, access to land and proper guidance, many individuals achieved results beyond their expectations.”

He encouraged young people to embrace commercial farming, poultry production and livestock businesses instead of seeking uncertain opportunities abroad.

“Agriculture offers immense opportunities for wealth creation that are often overlooked. Many young people can build successful enterprises right here at home if they are given the necessary support.”

The PDP leader further identified access to affordable finance as one of the biggest challenges facing young entrepreneurs and farmers.

“I have initiated programmes designed to assist young farmers in obtaining financing. In some cases, arrangements were made to reduce the burden of interest payments so beneficiaries could focus on repaying only the principal amount.”

Adebutu advocated a shift towards practical, vocational and technology-driven education, arguing that the current system often produces graduates whose skills do not align with labour market demands.

“Education must go beyond academic qualifications. We need an education system that prepares students not only to seek jobs, but also to create opportunities for themselves and others.”

He also emphasised the importance of character development and moral values in nation-building.

“Integrity, honesty, responsibility, discipline and respect are essential qualities for national development. Our society cannot thrive if we focus solely on intellectual development while neglecting character formation.”

The PDP stalwart called for increased investment in digital infrastructure in schools to equip young Nigerians with technology skills from an early age.

“In today’s world, digital skills are no longer optional; they are essential. Every child should have access to computers, digital resources and modern learning platforms.”

Adebutu submitted that governance should be measured by its impact on citizens rather than personal recognition.

“What matters most is that the people benefit. Development should never be about personal credit; it should always be about creating opportunities and delivering a better future for all.”

…..Why I Left My Former Political Camp — Iyabo Obasanjo

Speaking at the event, the PDP’s Ogun Central Senatorial candidate, Iyabo Obasanjo, explained the reasons behind her recent political realignment, saying she joined a platform that genuinely prioritises the welfare of the people.

“I believe this is the winning side. More importantly, it is the side to which I naturally belong. It is a side that understands that personal gain should never be the highest priority.”

She said her decision was influenced by what she described as a lack of respect and trust in her former political environment.

“As a true Yoruba person, being disrespected is one of the worst things that can happen to me. I felt disrespected where I was, and it is my right as a human being to leave that environment and chart a new course.”

According to her, leadership must be built on integrity and the ability to honour commitments.

“If people cannot be taken at their word at the highest levels of leadership, then we have lost a fundamental principle of governance.”

In his remarks, Ogun State PDP Chairman, Dr. Abayomi Tella, dismissed claims that the opposition party had lost relevance in the state, insisting that it remains vibrant and well-positioned for the 2027 general elections.

“Those who claimed the PDP was dead can now see that the party is alive, strong and vibrant. The 2027 election will be a defining moment, and the PDP is better positioned than ever to meet that challenge.”

Tella described Adebutu as a grassroots politician committed to the welfare of ordinary people.

“He has always been among the people. His investments are here, his interests are here, and he understands where the people are hurting and where solutions are needed.”

The party chairman also threw his weight behind local government autonomy, describing it as crucial to effective grassroots governance.

“Local government administration works best when leaders listen directly to the people and respond to their needs. Development is most effective when communities participate in determining their priorities.”

Expressing optimism about the party’s prospects, Tella urged members to remain united ahead of the next electoral cycle.

“With the grace of God and the support of the people, we shall reach the promised land.”