…Launches Campaign Slogan, “Salako De, Alaafia De, Aseyori De.”
The global president of Offa Descendants Union (ODU), Dr. Azeez-Salako Muideen Olaniyi, on Monday joined the gubernatorial race in Kwara, presenting his letter of intent to the state working committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by Chairman Prince Sunday Fagbemi.
Dr. Azeez-Salako, who sought to be the party’s consensus candidate, hinted that his administration will be people-centered, anchored on progress, peace, and prosperity.
Accompanied by hundreds of supporters and party stakeholders from across the 16 local government areas of the state, the Offa-born business mogul stated that it is his first time contesting for any political post, expressing confidence that he will be better off as the governor.
The governorship hopeful said that he knows where the show pinches, being someone who struggled in early life before realizing what he is today.
He, however, pledged that his ambition is anchored on the desire “to be able to deliver good governance and to put food on the table of the good people of the state, having been a community leader for over four decades.”
In his address, Dr. Azeez-Salako expressed confidence that picking him as the consensus candidate will not create any problems for the party, adding that his position is that “the progressive rule must be sustained in the state.”
He, meanwhile, appreciated Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his developmental strides so far, noting that: “he has done well, but I intend to improve on issues like security, infrastructure, and poverty alleviation.”
The governorship hopeful assured that he will also deliver on infrastructure because most rural communities have been cut off from the state capital, stressing that “most rural areas can no longer link the state capital; farming activities and agro-allied industries must be re-energized.”
“All local government headquarters must link with the state capital, especially the Kwara North, where the food is coming from, with good roads.
“I will also ensure that electricity, water, and many more social services will be provided, there won’t be political jobbers but rather political entrepreneurs.”
Responding, the Kwara APC Chairman, Prince Sunday Fagbemi, congratulated the governorship aspirant on his courage to contest the governorship race, urging him not to be pessimistic about his desire.
He enjoined him to base his desire on issues and not to be confrontational, adding that he and the party executives believe in his capability to take the state to greater heights.
“We pray you achieve your desire; we pray you get there; we pray the best happen to Kwara; we pray you are that best.
“Just continue to win people with what you want to do for Kwara and how you wish to lift Kwara, don’t attack individuals,” the state APC chairman advised.
Meanwhile, in his further engagement with the party, Dr. Azeez-Salako hosted a large crowd of supporters, party faithful, and stakeholders from across the 16 local government areas of the state at the Arca Santa Hall, Ilorin, where he addressed the faithful and gathered early momentum for his gubernatorial ambition.
Addressing the large crowd, the governorship hopeful said his aspiration is driven by a deep understanding of the struggles of ordinary citizens and a commitment to repositioning Kwara State for inclusive growth.
He described his campaign as “Kwara Will Be Great Again,” guided by the motto “Salako De, Alaafia De, Aseyori De”—meaning Progress, Peace, and Prosperity for all.
Dr. Azeez-Salako recounted his journey as one shaped by perseverance rather than privilege, noting his early days as a roadside motorcycle mechanic and truck driver before rising to become an entrepreneur and community leader.
“I understand your challenges because I have lived them. That is why this mission is deeply personal to me,” he said.
Outlining his policy direction, the governorship hopeful pledged to prioritize security through intelligence-driven and community-based strategies, invest in infrastructure to enhance connectivity and economic activities, and transform agriculture into a viable commercial sector capable of generating employment and boosting internally generated revenue.
He also emphasized plans to equip young people with practical skills, reform the education sector to align with modern realities, and improve access to quality healthcare services across the state.
Dr. Azeez-Salako further assured civil servants and retirees of better welfare, while promising to create an enabling environment for small and medium-scale enterprises to thrive.
Highlighting his preparedness for leadership, he pointed to his academic credentials, including a Ph.D. in Forensic Accounting and Audit, alongside years of leadership experience.
The governorship hopeful aligned his vision with the national development agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, commending ongoing reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda. He also acknowledged the efforts of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, noting that his administration would build on existing foundations to deliver greater development.
Dr. Azeez-Salako paid tribute to traditional and religious leaders in the state for their roles in maintaining peace and unity, singling out the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, for his leadership and commitment to harmony. He also recognized other royal fathers for their contributions to stability and progress.
He commended the leadership of the APC in Kwara State under the chairmanship of Prince Sunday Fagbemi, praising the party’s structure and commitment to democratic values.
Goodwill messages were delivered by notable stakeholders, including Mr. Sunday Ajileye, Chairman of the Arometa Development Association for Kwara South, and Alhaji Maiyaki Alfa from Lafiagi in Kwara North. Both speakers described the aspirant as a man of integrity and praised him for his longstanding commitment to community development, thereby expressing confidence in his ability to deliver on his promises if elected.
The event was marked by enthusiastic support, as attendees from various parts of the state pledged their backing for his candidacy.
Concluding his address, Dr. Azeez-Salako called for collective effort in building a better future for Kwara State.
“This is not just my journey; it is our collective mission. Together, we will rise. Together, we will build. Together, Kwara will be great again,” he said.
