Oriade Concerned Citizens Rally Support for Desmond Ojo Ahead of APC Primaries

A socio-political group under the aegis of Oriade Concerned Citizens has called on leaders of the All Progressives Congress in Osun State to carefully consider competence, experience, and grassroots acceptance while selecting the party’s candidate for the forthcoming Oriade State Constituency election into the State House of Assembly.

The group warned against the emergence of what it described as another “rubber-stamp and benchwarming lawmaker,” stressing that the people of Oriade State Constituency deserve a vibrant and experienced representative capable of defending the interests of the constituency at the Osun State House of Assembly.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Dr. Olowookere Ibikunle Samson stated that although all the aspirants within the APC have contributed to the growth of the party in one way or another, the leadership must prioritize a candidate with political experience, credibility, and the capacity to secure victory at the polls.

Dr. Ibikunle noted that the position of ranking and influence at the State House of Assembly is highly important, adding that Oriade Constituency cannot afford to send a first-timer who may struggle to make meaningful contributions on the floor of the House. According to him, the constituency requires a tested and outspoken legislator who can effectively represent the people.

Reviewing some of the aspirants, the group acknowledged Prof. Andrew Ifemidayo Akinmoladun as an intellectual with vast academic knowledge whose contributions could positively impact legislative activities. However, the group expressed concerns over his perceived low grassroots visibility, arguing that electoral victory requires strong political structures and direct connection with the people.

The Concerned Citizens also described another youthful aspirant from Ipetu-Ijesa as a sharp and energetic politician with notable street credibility. Nevertheless, the group maintained that his recent entry into the APC and limited experience within the party structure could affect his chances of securing the ticket, while also raising concerns about his ability to command influence as a first-time lawmaker.

Speaking further, the group mentioned Hon. Olufemi Akosile as a vibrant politician and successful businessman based in the United States, but questioned whether his frequent travels abroad could affect effective representation. It also described former lawmaker Hon. Israel Tomi Aloba as an experienced politician, while expressing concerns about the political and non performance challenges during the 6th assembly surrounding his return to the Assembly.

The group, however, strongly projected Hon. Babatunde Desmond Ojo as the most experienced and politically grounded among the aspirants. According to Dr. Ibikunle, Hon. Ojo remains a household name across the wards in Oriade State Constituency due to his grassroots mobilization, legislative experience, and visible performance during his previous tenure at the Osun State House of Assembly.

The Concerned Citizens emphasized that Hon. Babatunde Desmond Ojo distinguished himself while serving as Chairman of the House Committee on Lands, where he reportedly demonstrated capacity, leadership, and commitment to public service. The group described him as a vocal, accessible, and result-oriented politician who possesses the experience needed to effectively represent Oriade Constituency without turning into a passive lawmaker. The group therefore appealed to APC elders, leaders, and stakeholders to carefully reconsider their decision and endorse the most qualified and electable aspirant in the overall interest of the constituency.