By Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo

In the evolving landscape of local governance, few leaders stand out as clearly as Hon. Ajayi Adekunle, the councillor representing Owode Ward in Obafemi-Owode Local Government. Widely regarded by his constituents as a beacon of hope and resilience, Adekunle has built a reputation anchored in community-focused service and unwavering commitment to development.

As a true grassroots politician who embodies the adage “all politics are local,” Hon. Adekunle has become a familiar and trusted name across Owode Ward. His approach to leadership is founded on visibility, accessibility, and actionable impact—qualities that have endeared him to residents and strengthened his bond with the people he serves.

Driving Development Through Tangible Projects
Hon. Adekunle’s political style is marked by purposeful interventions designed to improve daily life within his ward. His development initiatives reflect both strategic thinking and genuine empathy for community needs. Among his notable contributions are:

Installation of borehole projects, providing clean and reliable water access to residents.
“Welcome Back to School” packages crafted to encourage students and support families, especially at the start of new academic terms.
Cash empowerment programmes for petty traders, aimed at boosting small businesses and enhancing economic stability across the ward.
Educational support initiatives, emphasizing his belief that empowering youth through learning is a foundation for long-term development.

These efforts collectively highlight a pattern of leadership rooted in empowerment rather than dependency—an approach that has earned him admiration across Obafemi-Owode.

Expanding Horizons: Pursuing Investment Opportunities Abroad
Beyond local initiatives, Hon. Adekunle has demonstrated a forward-looking vision that extends beyond Nigeria’s borders. Recently, driven by his passion for progress and sustainable development, he accompanied the Executive Chairman of Obafemi-Owode Local Government, Ambassador Lanrewaju Adesina Ogunsola, on a mission to the United States of America USA.

According to the information shared, the visit focused on securing agricultural investment opportunities for the local government—an ambitious step expected to:

Create new employment opportunities for young people
Enhance agricultural productivity
Strengthen food security in Ogun State and beyond
This international engagement further reflects Hon. Adekunle’s expanding political sagacity and his readiness to explore innovative avenues for local economic growth.

A Leader Worth Emulating
In a time when effective grassroots governance is more essential than ever, Hon. Ajayi Adekunle stands as an inspiring example of what determined, community-first leadership looks like. His blend of compassion, strategic thinking, and hands-on engagement continues to shape the lives of his constituents and set a high standard for local governance.

As Owode Ward and the entire Obafemi-Owode Local Government look to the future, the impact of his work is already paving the way for sustained progress and collective advancement.

We, the Royal Families and Indigenous Egba Settlers of Abule Egba, wish to state clearly and unequivocally that we do not want any crisis or unrest in Abule Egba, Lagos.

Our community has enjoyed peace for centuries, and we are committed to preserving that legacy.

It has come to our attention that Mr. Aliu Abiodun Abdul-Salam has been parading himself as the Baale of Abule Egba and falsely presenting Abule Egba as Awori land.

We strongly emphasize that there is nothing like “Awori land” in Abule Egba, and we urge the general public to disregard such misleading claims.

AUTHENTIC TRADITIONAL LEADERSHIP

The legitimate and recognized Baale of Abule Egba remains Chief Gabriel Sunday Omotosho, who is alive, active, and performing his duties.

Any attempt by any individual to usurp this respected traditional stool is unlawful, misleading, and capable of causing community unrest.

HISTORICAL FACTS AND ROYAL LINEAGE

Abule Egba is historically an Egba settlement, with the Baaki Adedipe Royal Family among the first settlers who have lived peacefully for centuries alongside other ruling houses and customary tenants.

We restate that:

There is nothing like an Osunbiyi Royal Family in Abule Egba.

Abule Egba is Egba land, fully backed by historical records and archival evidence.

Awori land claims in Abule Egba are false, misleading, and historically inaccurate.

As stated by Kazeem Adedipe of the Baaki Adedipe Royal House,

“We do not want what has happened in other places concerning chieftaincy and land issues to happen in Abule Egba.”

CALL TO GOVERNMENT AND SECURITY AGENCIES

We hereby call the attention of:

The Executive Chairman of Agbado/Oke-Odo LCDA, Hon. Abiodun Ejigbadero

The Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency Babajide Sanwo-Olu

The Lagos State Commissioner of Police

The Area Commander, Area P

The DPO, Oke Odo Division to urgently intervene and call Mr. Aliu Abiodun Abdul-Salam to order.

He should immediately stop parading himself as the Baale of Abule Egba and desist from issuing or planning any chieftaincy titles within the community.

If he desires to become a Baale, he should return to his own village, not attempt to impose himself on our land.

CONCLUSION

For peace to continue to reign in Abule Egba:

Traditional structures must be respected.

False claims must stop.

The community must remain to united under its legitimate traditional leadership.

We remain committed to protecting the heritage of Egba people, the ruling families, and the historical truth of Abule Egba.

SIGNED:

Kazeem Adedipe

Baaki Adedipe Royal House

Abule Egba, Lagos

Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo

In the evolving landscape of grassroots development in Ogun State, Hon. Igbalaye Wasiu Ayodele—widely known as IWA—has continued to distinguish himself through impactful representation and people-centered initiatives. As the member representing Abeokuta South Constituency 2 in the Ogun State House of Assembly (OGHA), his tenure has been marked by strategic development projects and tangible interventions that have improved the lives of constituents across communities.

Hon. IWA’s leadership philosophy is built on accessibility, responsiveness, and a deep commitment to the welfare of his people. These values have guided the numerous projects he has delivered—projects that resonate with the needs of ordinary citizens and reflect a clear understanding of grassroots priorities.

Among his notable achievements is the renovation and support of public primary schools across the constituency, providing students with a safer and more conducive learning environment. His focus on educational development extends to scholarship schemes that have given countless young people renewed hope and expanded opportunities. Through these efforts, IWA has demonstrated that quality education remains a cornerstone of community advancement.

The health sector has also benefited significantly from his representation. Upgrades to primary health centers, provision of essential medical supplies, and facilitation of improved community healthcare services have strengthened the wellbeing of residents—especially women, children, and the elderly. His attention to healthcare accessibility underscores his belief that a healthy community is the foundation of sustainable development.

Equally impactful are his empowerment programs, which have supported aged citizens, local traders, artisans, and small business owners. These initiatives have not only provided financial relief but have also enhanced economic participation and independence for beneficiaries. By targeting vulnerable groups and grassroots entrepreneurs, IWA continues to promote inclusive development within the constituency.

As the forthcoming election approaches, many constituents and observers believe that continuity will help consolidate and expand on the progress already achieved. Hon. Igbalaye Wasiu Ayodele has expressed his readiness to continue delivering results if entrusted with a solid eight-year mandate at the Ogun State House of Assembly. His vision for the next phase includes deeper community engagements, more infrastructural development, and strengthened social support systems.

With a track record marked by service, transparency, and measurable impact, IWA stands as a testament to what effective representation can accomplish. His achievements have set a high standard for constituency leadership, and many believe that continuity will further accelerate growth and development in Ogun State.

As voters prepare for the next electoral cycle, Hon. Igbalaye Wasiu Ayodele’s message is clear: the work continues, the people come first, and the future holds even greater promise with sustained, focused leadership.