The Social Democratic Party's (SDP) governorship candidate in Oyo State, Mogaji Agboola, has expressed confidence in his party's chances in the 2027 election. In an interview, Agboola stated that the SDP, being the oldest political party in Nigeria, has an advantage over newer parties like the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He noted that many prominent Nigerian politicians, including President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Kabiyesi Rashidi Ladoja, got their political start in the SDP.
Agboola addressed concerns about the incumbency advantage of the APM, which has been in power for seven and a half years under Governor Seyi Makinde. He argued that the longer the APM stays in power, the more it becomes an albatross, as Oyo State people are intelligent and dynamic, and may not want to perpetuate the same leadership. Agboola cited several projects undertaken by the current administration, including the Circular Road and the airport, but questioned their value and the cost at which they were executed.
The SDP governorship candidate criticized the current administration's projects, citing the high debt profile of Oyo State and the unclear economic benefits of some projects. He mentioned the airport, which has gulped several hundred billion naira, and questioned its potential to generate revenue for the state. Agboola also expressed concerns about the condition of some inner roads, which have created more problems than solutions.
Agboola outlined the SDP's seven-point agenda, which focuses on bringing governance closest to the people through the local governments. He emphasized that local governments are best positioned to address localized problems unique to specific areas. The SDP plans to transform the state's 33 local governments into service centres that can channel the administration's efforts to the people.
According to Agboola, once the local governments are established as service centres, other initiatives can be implemented through them. These include education, healthcare delivery, support services for the agricultural community, and infrastructure development. He stressed the importance of proper needs assessment and direction in addressing the state's challenges.
Agboola's plan to revitalize local governments is seen as a potential game-changer in Oyo State's governance. By decentralizing governance and empowering local communities, the SDP aims to address the diverse needs of the state's population. Agboola expressed confidence that the SDP's agenda can resonate with Oyo State people, who are seeking a change from the current administration.
The 2027 election in Oyo State is expected to be a keenly contested one, with several parties vying for power. Agboola's SDP is banking on its experience and a well-articulated agenda to win over voters. The party's focus on local governments and service delivery may appeal to voters seeking a more inclusive and responsive government.
Key points
- SDP's Agboola to make Oyo's 33 LGs service centres if elected in 2027.
