As part of his ongoing efforts to uplift his constituents economically, the lawmaker representing Akinyele/Lagelu Federal Constituency, Hon. Akinmoyede Olafisoye Wasiu, has once again empowered no fewer than two hundred (200) farmers in his constituency.

The lawmaker organised a training programme for selected fish farmers at the Faith Joe Event Centre, located beside Community Secondary School, Alegongo, Ibadan.

Each of the beneficiaries received ₦100,000 in cash, fish feed, fish species, and plastic tanks to assist them in raising their fish. The gesture is part of Olafisoye’s comprehensive plan to enhance agricultural productivity and economic empowerment in the area.

Apart from the fish farming support, the lawmaker also distributed fertilisers, maize and beans seedlings, and a variety of farm equipment.

These items included world brush cutters, knapsack power sprayers, seed planters, farm tillers, and other essential agricultural implements, aimed at supporting another group of farmers in the constituency.

This latest empowerment initiative follows closely on the heels of the lawmaker’s announcement of a ₦1.5 million scholarship for 30 students of Community Grammar School, Lalupon, who are set to write their WAEC exams in 2025.

The announcement was made during the commissioning of a block of six classrooms facilitated by Olafisoye under the 2024 Sustainable Development Goals Special Intervention Project.

Speaking at the event, the lawmaker and former council chief, popularly known as Lafi, expressed his commitment to delivering meaningful benefits to his constituents, regardless of political affiliation.

He emphasised that his interventions are designed to address both infrastructural and economic challenges, providing “community infrastructure and stomach infrastructure” in light of the current economic hardship facing the nation.

Hon. Joshua Oyebamiji, the Oyo Central Senatorial Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), praised Lafi for his consistent empowerment programmes.

Oyebamiji remarked that it was rare to see a first-term lawmaker initiate so many impactful projects, noting that the representative’s efforts have significantly improved the lives of his constituents.

Several beneficiaries of the empowerment programme, including Agboola Samson Abayomi from Ejioku in Lagelu Local Government, Oduola Sefiu from Ward 5, Adebiyi Oluwakemi from Akinyele Local Government, and Adigun Michael, expressed their appreciation for the lawmaker’s dedication to the people.

They lauded him for surpassing the achievements of previous representatives in the constituency.

The event was well-attended, with notable figures including the APC Chairmen for Lagelu and Akinyele local governments, Mr. Awoyoola Fatai Sunday and Emmanuel Akinboade, alongside representatives from schools, community, and religious leaders.

The elites of Esanland have endorsed Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) flagbearer, as their choice for the next governor of Edo State.

This unanimous endorsement came during a virtual meeting aimed at evaluating the candidatures of the two prominent sons of Esanland representing the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

After a detailed examination of both candidates, Ighodalo emerged as the preferred choice.

His clear and ambitious manifesto resonates with the aspirations of Esanland for growth and prosperity. The key pillars of his campaign, including a strong focus on quality education, maximum security, economic growth, job creation, and inclusive governance, have garnered widespread support among the people.

Ighodalo’s commitment to enhancing education in the state aligns with Esanland’s vision for a well-equipped future generation. His plans to tackle insecurity through technological innovation promise a more peaceful and safe environment for all citizens.

Continuing, his economic agenda, which emphasises technologically driven agriculture, improved infrastructure, and the provision of pipe-borne water, is expected to drive unprecedented growth in the region.

Also, noteworthy is the PDP’s candidate promise to create job opportunities that exceed the working population, offering a beacon of hope for the youth. His pledge to promote tourism, collaborate with indigenes in the diaspora, and harness the state’s natural resources for economic development has further solidified his support among the Esan elites.

The group, however, called on Sen. Monday Okpebholo, the APC candidate, to step down and continue his legislative duties in the Senate. They further urged all stakeholders to avoid conflict, emphasising the shared ancestral heritage of both candidates and the unity of purpose that should guide this electoral process.

To amplify their call, the Esan4Esan Global Support League plans a coordinated effort involving the sending of one million letters to Okpebholo, expressing the collective desire for a peaceful resolution.

According to the group, these letters will be sent through various channels, including email, WhatsApp, and social media, underscoring the widespread support for Dr. Ighodalo’s candidacy.

The President and Coordinating Director of the Esan4Esan Global Support League, Dr. Elizabeth Okoruwa Okojie expressed optimism about this united front.

“Our resolve to support Dr. Asue Ighodalo is born out of a shared vision for Esanland’s resurgence and a brighter future for all of Edo State,” she stated. “We look forward to congratulating him as the incoming Governor of Edo State.”

• Vows to Uphold Late Akinremi’s Legacy

Hon. Monsuru Akintunde Adeyemo, former Vice Chairman of Aare Latosa Local Council, has officially declared his intention to contest in the forthcoming by-election for the House of Representatives in Ibadan North Federal Constituency of Oyo State.

Addressing the press, Adeyemo first expressed his deep condolences to the family of the late lawmaker, Akinremi Jagaban, and the broader community, reflecting on the impact the loss has had on both the party and the constituents.

“May Allah, in His infinite mercy, grant them eternal rest in Al-Janat Firdaus and provide us all with the strength to bear these sad occurrences,” he said.

Over the past 41 days since the passing of Prince Akinremi and eight days since the Oyo APC party gaffer, Barr. Isaac Omodewu’s departure, Adeyemo shared that he has dedicated himself to prayer and reflection. This period, he noted, has allowed him to carefully study the historical patterns and current trends within the constituency and the party.

Recognizing the formidable aspirants already in the race, the APC chieftain positioned himself as a bridge builder, emphasizing his longstanding commitment to the party and its progressive ideals.

“As a founding member and loyal stalwart of our party, I humbly offer myself as a bridge builder to fill the gap left by our late representative,” he declared.

Adeyemo highlighted his extensive experience within the APC, including maintaining strong relationships with leaders at various levels and contributing significantly to the party’s activities.

He also underscored his role as a pro-people advocate, having helped numerous individuals secure employment and contributed to human capital development within the constituency.

Reflecting on the five years of impactful representation by Prince Akinremi, Adeyemo promised to consolidate and build upon the gains made during that period.

“My passion to serve our people and to make a meaningful impact on the lives of the constituents of Ibadan North drives me to put forth my candidacy for this position,” he asserted.

With a diverse background in student unionism, youth leadership, pan-African activism, and communication, the aspirant expressed confidence in his ability to effectively represent the interests of Ibadan North Federal Constituency at the federal level.

He therefore called on party leaders, members, and constituents to unite behind his candidacy, vowing that together they could achieve transformative change and foster inclusive development.

“As I win, you win,” Adeyemo concluded, expressing his gratitude to his supporters and reaffirming his commitment to progressivism and the ideals of the APC.