The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State for the 2027 general elections, Engr. Sulaiman Bolakale Kawu, has decried the persistent infrastructure neglect and socio-economic deprivation confronting communities across Kwara North Senatorial District.
Kawu expressed his concerns in a press statement obtained by 9japarrot issued following his fact-finding tour across the four districts of Baruten Local Government Area, including Yashikira, Okuta, Gwanara, and Ilesha Baruba.
Highlighting critical service delivery gaps, the PDP gubernatorial candidate noted that several communities in Baruten have endured seven years without electricity, while local students are forced to travel to Saki in neighboring Oyo State to write Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examinations.
“No community should be left in darkness for years, and no child should have to overcome such avoidable obstacles simply to sit for an examination,” Kawu stated.
“Access to electricity, quality education, healthcare, and decent roads should not be privileges reserved for a few; they are essential responsibilities of a government that puts its people first.” He added.
Reviewing transportation infrastructure in the local government area, Kawu pointed to the deteriorating state of the 126.7-kilometer Yashikira–Ilesha Baruba–Okuta–Kosubosu road, contrasting its durability under the administration of former Governor Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki with recently constructed state roads that show premature degradation.
“The 32-kilometer road constructed by the present administration over seven years is already showing signs of deterioration,” Kawu said.
“This contrast should prompt sober reflection on the importance of timely execution, quality assurance, and a consistent commitment to maintaining public infrastructure.”
Questioning current state expenditure priorities, the PDP candidate called for a realignment of public spending from high-profile vanity projects toward basic rural infrastructure, insecurity mitigation, healthcare delivery, and educational facilities.
Kawu reaffirmed his commitment to formulating a people-centered development blueprint for Kwara State, assuring residents that Kwara North and other underserved local government areas will receive equitable governance and sustainable public investments under a PDP administration.
