A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Olugbenga Omole, has declared his intention to contest for a seat in the Ondo State House of Assembly ahead of the 2027 general election.
NOP NIGERIA reports that Omole, a former Special Adviser on Transport to Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, is seeking to represent Akoko South West Constituency I.
The aspirant made his declaration on Sunday, April 5, during an empowerment programme held in Oka-Akoko, where he also unveiled a ₦20 million community development support fund.
The fund, according to him, is targeted at youths, students, artisans, market women and women’s groups, farmers, members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, and religious leaders.
Omole said his decision to return to the Assembly was driven by what he described as a “social contract” with his constituents, having previously served between 2019 and 2023.
“I stand before you today heeding the call to return to the House of Assembly to continue quality representation and ensure the dividends of democracy reach our people,” he said.
The APC chieftain pledged to prioritise youth empowerment, infrastructure development and inclusive governance if elected.
He also promised to push for the creation of more Local Council Development Areas in the constituency.
“If elected, I will agitate for more LCDAs. Oka should have up to three. I will prioritise infrastructure and expand opportunities for our youths.
“I am also going to do more specially for youths. I will prioritize infrastructure development, that is our main challenge, and continue to liaise with community leaders to address pressing needs,” he added.
Omole also commended the Ondo State Government for improving the release of constituency funds, noting that the development would enhance lawmakers’ effectiveness at the grassroots level.
Reflecting on his previous tenure, the former lawmaker listed several achievements, including facilitating employment opportunities for constituents in government agencies and supporting the Amotekun Corps.
He added that he provided palliatives during the COVID-19 lockdown and contributed to grassroots sports development.
Other contributions, he said, include resolving disputes among farmers, promoting adult literacy and vocational education, and investing in agriculture.
As part of his consultations, Omole visited the Olubaka of Oka, Yusuf Adebori Adeleye, and the Asin of Iwaro Oka, Omoyejola Pius Akande, where he received royal blessings.
The monarchs, while offering prayers, urged him to prioritise infrastructure development across Oka communities.
Aiyedatiwa Backs Omole’s Ambition
Earlier, Governor Aiyedatiwa, who was represented by the Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board, Victor Olabimtan, described Omole as a “tested and trusted leader,” endorsing his return to the Assembly.
“Omole is the right person for the position. He stood by me during the struggle and is still standing. He has paid his dues,” he said.
Also speaking, the Ondo State Chairman of the APC, Kolawole Babatunde, lauded Omole’s contributions to Oka-Akoko and reaffirmed the party’s commitment to supporting its candidates.
“From the President downward, all APC candidates will be voted for. The party will work massively for all its candidates, leaving no one behind,” he said.
