Owa Obokun prays for APC candidate Oyebamiji, urges inclusive governance
The Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Adesuyi Haastrup, has prayed for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in the August 15 Osun election, Bola Oyebamiji, expressing hope that he would deliver good governance if elected.
The monarch spoke on Thursday when Oyebamiji and members of the APC Governorship Campaign Council paid him a courtesy visit at his palace in Ilesa.
Oba Haastrup emphasised the importance of good governance and cordial relations between the state and Federal Government, citing the ongoing rehabilitation of the Ilesa-Ife-Ibadan Expressway as an example of the benefits of such collaboration.
He also appealed to the APC candidate to support the proposed Obokun University if elected into office.
“Our governor-to-be, Senator Francis Fadahunsi has started Obokun University. When you get there, whatever support you can give to make that dream a reality, please help us.
“Your efforts will not be in vain. God will take you to the Promised Land. I know you will not forget Ijesaland because you are surrounded by patriotic Ijesa people,” the monarch said.
Responding, Oyebamiji assured the traditional ruler that his administration would govern Osun State fairly and equitably if elected.
“Our government will not be guided by hypocrisy or nepotism. We will not concentrate the use of state resources in one community or town. We will govern Osun fairly and responsibly,” he said.
The APC candidate also highlighted his record as former Managing Director of the Osun State Investment Company Limited (OSICOL), saying he revived the company and expanded its investment portfolio.
According to him, OSICOL partnered with a company owned by the monarch to acquire properties for the state, including 32 four-bedroom flats in Guzape, Abuja, and additional properties in Ikoyi, Lagos.
He added that the company established one of the largest filling stations in Osun State during his tenure without borrowing funds.
“I revitalised OSICOL from a struggling company into a viable enterprise. We acquired valuable assets for Osun State and achieved these without borrowing a kobo,” Oyebamiji said.
