In a recent interview on Channels Television’s “Political Paradigm,” Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke shares insights and reflections on his two years in office.
It’s been two years. Many doubted your ability as a governor, and some still have low expectations. You look younger; is governing less stressful than you thought?
The last two years were tough. I felt cheated in the 2018 election, which I clearly won, but that’s behind me now. I prepared and believed that God would give me my chance, and I won a significant victory. Defeating an incumbent in Nigeria is difficult, but I did it, which I see as a sign from God. Many called me the ‘dancing senator’ and thought I would just socialize Gov. Adeleke said.
I ignored the critics because I had a plan. Once I was sworn in, I took action.
At first, it was hard. I prefer not to stay in an air-conditioned office; I wear sneakers and a cap to inspect projects, showing contractors that I am serious about my work.
There were many unfinished projects, including a looted Government House. Those unhappy with my victory vandalized it, and it took me a year to move in. I documented the damage to show that this is democracy; if the people choose to remove you, you must accept it.
Did you try to recover the stolen items?
No, that would be a waste of time. I didn’t investigate anyone; the debt was too much. I informed the Obas (kings) about the situation. Osun State, despite its limited resources, was nearly N60 billion in debt, along with other undiscovered liabilities. I chose to focus on work instead.
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What projects are you proud of from the past two years in Osun State?
Infrastructure is important. I focus on rural areas since most of our people are farmers. Without good roads, they can’t transport their goods. My initial N100 billion infrastructure plan faced skepticism, but I completed it in two years. In Osogbo and other cities, I’ve built about 150 kilometers of roads, adding streetlights for safety and aesthetics. Each town has at least 1.5 kilometers of roads, ensuring widespread improvements.
I take pride in fixing roads and bridges in Osogbo and Ilesha, where conditions have never been better.
How did you manage this despite the N60 billion debt?
I’m actively paying it down.
Where does your funding come from?
From taxes and Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). We improved the system to stop financial leaks, preventing any godfathers from taking advantage. I manage finances myself, which helps my success. I owe no favors to anyone since my campaign was self-funded.
Is Osun state now generating revenue from mining?
Yes, we revived the mining sector, which had been ignored. We now hold a shareholder license, a first for us. I plan to contact the Minister of Solid Mineral Resources, Dele Alake, to get the license. As for security votes, I don’t collect them; they remain untouched for any security needs that come up.
