…unveils people-centred agenda

By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

An agricultural economist and development strategist, Otunba Tunji Oredipe, has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Ogun State, pledging to deliver a people-centred administration, anchored on accountability, grassroots development and economic expansion.

Oredipe, while speaking at the official declaration, held at Atan, Ijebu North East local government area of the State, stated that he was stepping forward “with humility, conviction, and a resolute sense of purpose” to serve the people of Ogun State, describing the moment as a critical turning point in the state’s history.

He said, “I stand before you, to announce my intention to serve as your next governor of the State. Our responsibility now is to quicken the pace, building on existing legacies so that Ogun’s ‘Gateway’ not only opens doors, but delivers prosperity to every doorstep.”

The governorship hopeful noted that former administrations laid the foundation for industrial growth, infrastructure expansion, and human capital development.

“These leaders have prepared the stage. What remains is to build on their legacies and ensure that development reaches every community,” he added.

Highlighting his professional background, Oredipe said his experience as an agricultural economist and systems architect, including work with global institutions such as the World Bank, has equipped him with the tools to deliver sustainable transformation.

“My journey has taken me from humble beginnings in Oke-Eri to global institutions. Today, I stand not as a global expert, but as a son of the soil who understands that lasting change requires both structure and determination.”

He outlined a three-pronged development agenda focused on visibility, economic inclusion, and accountability.

Under his “visibility for every community” plan, Oredipe pledged to implement a transparent, community-driven development roadmap that ensures equitable distribution of infrastructure.

“No village should go unnoticed. Every resident will know when their road, clinic or school will be delivered. Development will be based on need, not relationships,” he stated.

On economic inclusion, he promised to connect grassroots producers and entrepreneurs to larger markets, saying, “whether you are a farmer, trader, artisan or industrial worker, my administration will be your partner in prosperity.”

He further pledged to institutionalize accountability in governance, describing it as a core value of his proposed administration.

“Accountability will not just be a policy; it will be our brand. We will build a governance system that integrates traditional leaders, youth, diaspora and private investors into a unified, high-performing network,” he said.

Oredipe also outlined priority areas for his administration if elected, including accelerated industrialisation, innovation in education and healthcare, improved security for industrial and agricultural clusters, and youth empowerment through skills development.

“We will empower our youth not with empty promises, but with skills for the 21st-century economy,” he said.

Expressing optimism about the state’s economic potential, he pointed to emerging opportunities in trade and infrastructure, noting that Ogun is well-positioned to become a leading economic hub in West Africa.

“The best days of Ogun State are ahead of us. The foundation is set, and the time is now,” he declared.

He called on party members and residents of the state to support his ambition.

“I humbly seek your support as we write a new chapter together — a chapter where no youth is idle, no farmer is forgotten, and Ogun stands tall as an economic powerhouse,” he said.

Speaking at the programme, the Chairman of Ijebu North-East Local Government, Foluso Badejo, described Oredipe as a forthright individual with a clear vision.

He noted that Oredipe has worked with Prince Dapo Abiodun and is highly regarded by the governor.

He added that Oredipe is presently working with the World Bank, emphasizing that it is not easy to gain such recognition from the institution.

“I am proud of you, and I admire the courage you have shown in stepping forward despite the number of aspirants already in the race.

I am proud to say that you are worthy to be the next governor of Ogun State.”