Group Lauds Oseni, Expresses Shock at EYM’s Abrupt Shift from Praise to Criticism

The Ibarapa East/Ido Concern Citizens (IICC) have responded robustly to recent criticisms from the Eruwa Youth Movement (EYM) concerning Engr. Aderemi Oseni, the Member representing the Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency in Oyo State.

The EYM’s letter expressed concerns about developmental progress and alleged unmet promises by the lawmaker, prompting a detailed rebuttal from the IICC last Friday.

The IICC acknowledged the concerns but argued that Oseni’s significant personal contributions and dedication to the constituency’s development, both prior to and following his election, warrant collective commendation and support rather than premature criticism.

“It is important to recognize that Hon. Aderemi Oseni has shown considerable capacity, quality representation, and a steadfast commitment to our constituency’s development. His continued investment of personal resources—both before and after his election—deserves commendation and encouragement rather than early criticism. Such actions could potentially deter other distinguished individuals from serving our community,” the response stated.

The IICC also highlighted the EYM’s recognition of Oseni’s acquisition of N120 million worth of earth-moving equipment, including a bulldozer and a road grader, as deserving of acknowledgment.

“This equipment is intended to advance grassroots development and ensure food security within our constituency, representing a groundbreaking initiative in Oyo State’s political history. We are aware that this equipment, inaugurated in March 2024, has been used to repair rural roads before the rainy season. It is impractical to undertake earthwork and grading during the rainy season, underscoring the need for mutual understanding on this issue,” the statement explained.

The IICC further questioned why the EYM has targeted Oseni alone for criticism while other key officials, such as the Oyo State Governor, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, the Senator representing Oyo South, local government chairmen, and other local leaders, have not faced similar scrutiny.

“We question why the Eruwa Youth Movement has focused its criticism solely on Hon. Oseni. Have similar concerns been directed at the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Debo Ogundoyin, local government chairmen, former House of Assembly members, or the Senator representing Oyo South, Barr. Sarafadeen Alli, who were elected alongside Oseni? These are critical questions that need clear answers.”

The IICC expressed confusion over the EYM’s shift from previous praise to recent criticism of Oseni, urging clarification of their stance and intentions.

“The Eruwa Youth Movement, which only two months ago praised Hon. Aderemi Oseni for his substantial contributions to the federal constituency and suggested he deserved not only commendation but celebration, now starkly contrasts with its recent condemnation. What has changed so drastically to warrant this shift in stance?

“We must question whose interests the youth group is truly serving. Is it the students whose WAEC and JAMB fees he has covered, the artisans and market women he has supported, or the communities he has aided through various projects and financial assistance? Or does this criticism stem from motives of personal gain and blackmail? The IICC is puzzled by this apparent contradiction.”

The IICC challenged the EYM’s claims of unsuccessful communication attempts with the lawmaker, citing Oseni’s open-door policy and multiple communication channels, including his 67 special assistants across the 20 wards, constituency office, and active WhatsApp groups.

The group urged the EYM to utilize these channels to address their concerns directly with the lawmaker.

The IICC called for patience and continued support for Oseni, emphasizing the need to navigate bureaucratic processes and recognize the progress made in his first year in office.

They reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating with the Eruwa Youth Movement and other stakeholders to advance community development and address pressing needs in the Ibarapa East/Ido federal constituency.

Read the full statement: