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By Adejoke Adeleye
The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has pledged to eradicate all forms of tyranny and hooliganism in the state.
He assured that anyone found responsible for the recent disturbances in Iperu-Remo during the just-concluded local government elections would face the full force of the law, regardless of their status.
Governor Abiodun made this declaration at the Presidential Lodge in Abeokuta on Sunday night while hosting the newly elected local government chairmen and their deputies.
He emphasised that the era of hooliganism and thuggery must come to an end in Ogun State, reaffirming his commitment, as the Chief Security Officer, to safeguarding peace and order.
The governor condemned the actions of individuals who imported illegal security operatives to disrupt the elections, stressing that such behaviour would not be tolerated.
“I want to commend our law enforcement agencies. Despite attempts by some individuals to disrupt the elections, their plans were thwarted. Let me assure you that the events in Iperu are under thorough investigation. Anyone found guilty—no matter their rank or influence—will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” he stated.
Governor Abiodun revealed that certain individuals had hired thugs, hoodlums, and unauthorised policemen to create chaos during the elections, even attacking the vice-chairman of a local government in his hometown.
“As the Chief Security Officer of this state, I will not allow such impunity. I promise to demystify anyone involved because enough is enough. Those illegal policemen have been disarmed and are now in custody at Eleweran,” he said.
The governor urged the newly elected local government chairmen to prioritise fairness and inclusivity in their governance. He reminded them that they were elected to serve all citizens, regardless of political affiliations.
“The elections are over, and you are now leaders for all. Be fair and just to everyone, and focus on delivering development to every corner of the state,” he advised.
Abiodun described the election results as a testament to the people’s confidence in the progress his administration had made over the past five years.
He congratulated the local government leaders, encouraging them to replicate the state government’s ISEYA vision—focused on infrastructure, social development, education, youth empowerment, and agriculture—in their respective areas.
“God has chosen you for this responsibility, not because you are better than others, but because it pleases Him. Use this opportunity to serve diligently,” he said.
Meanwhile, on Monday, Abiodun charged the newly elected local government chairmen to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people at the grassroots level.
The governor gave this charge at the swearing-in ceremony for the new chairmen at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta.
He stated that, as the closest tier of government, they were expected to formulate policies and implement programmes that would positively impact and improve the lives of people in their respective local government areas.
The governor noted that the emergence of the new chairmen signified the confidence the people had in the state government and the APC, urging them to work towards improving the lives of their constituents.
Abiodun, who acknowledged the peaceful conduct of the elections across the state, said it was crucial for the chairmen to align with the state’s development agenda and embrace innovation to generate revenue for their councils.
While urging the new local government heads to prioritise security by working closely with security agencies, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders, the governor also stressed the importance of mentoring future leaders to sustain their legacies.
He challenged them to uphold the state’s vision by serving all citizens, regardless of faith, tribe, or political affiliation.
Responding on behalf of his colleagues, the Chairman of Sagamu Local Government Area, Hon. Olasile Odulate, expressed gratitude to the governor and the people of the state for the trust placed in them.
He pledged that they would uphold the principles of good governance and deliver impactful leadership to the people in their respective councils.
