By Demola Akinyemi, Ilorin

The gubernatorial candidate of the Tanimu-Turaki led Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP) in Kwara State, Alh Ladi Hassan has denied claims that he is working for the ruling All Progressives Congress( APC),even as he pledged to take masses of the state out of poverty.

Recall that Hassan, a close ally of the former Senate president, Dr Bukola Saraki who lost in the primaries of Wike-led faction of PDP suddenly emerged the gubernatorial candidate of the other faction.

Addressing a news conference in Ilorin, the state capital,on Saturday Hassan said: ” My participation in the current political process should not be
interpreted as rebellion or hostility towards anyone. Rather, it reflects my
commitment to ensuring that democratic values remain central to the future
of our party.

“I also need to debunk the rumour that I’m working for APC,that’s an insult and it’s not true,I’m in this race to win”

He added that :”I am prepared for the governorship duties and responsibilities because my journey has provided me with a unique combination of experiences across
both the private and public sectors over a period spanning more than four decades. My professional foundation was built within the private sector.”

The former commissioner for Health and chairman of the state primary education board who promised to eradicate poverty, ensure youth and women inclusion in government,said:,”we will fight to eradicate poverty, create productive employment, and foster economic transformation that improves lives and promotes shared Prosperity.”

He also said that,”the central objective of my administration will be the aggressive reduction of poverty and the creation of a more prosperous and productive Kwara State.

“Our vision is simple but ambitious: to build a Kwara State where prosperity is not limited to a few people or a few communities, but shared across all segments of the society.

“Recognising the difficult economic realities facing many families, the first phase of our administration will focus on immediate intervention programmes targeted at the most vulnerable members of society.”

“We shall establish structured welfare and food support programmes aimed at assisting widows, the elderly, people living with disabilities, low-income households, and the less privileged. We will also provide immediate welfare subsidies including transportation (such as electric buses),” former Chief of Staff to Governor Bukola Saraki said

He explained further that no responsible government would watch its citizens go hungry while possessing the capacity to provide relief and support,” adding that while such interventions are not permanent solutions, they will provide immediate assistance while broader economic reforms take effect.”

“However, provision of welfare alone cannot solve poverty.The long-term solution to poverty is productivity.” he further said, adding that the long-term solution to poverty is economic empowerment and development.

“The long-term solution to poverty is creating opportunities for citizens to earn sustainable incomes and improve their quality of life.

“Consequentially, our second phase of intervention will focus heavily on agriculture, infrastructure, enterprise development, industrial growth, technology and wealth creation,” he stated.