Massive turnout greets empowerment programme and town hall unveiling as political leaders rally support
Across Nigeria, where economic pressures continue to shape daily life, moments of direct community impact often carry deeper meaning. In Oka-Akoko, that moment came with both relief and political significance, as Hon. (Dr.) Akogun Olugbenga Omole not only declared his intention to contest the Akoko South West Constituency 1 seat in the Ondo State House of Assembly in 2027, but also distributed ₦20 million in cash grants to support local groups and businesses.
By mid-morning, the usually quiet town had taken on a different energy. Groups gathered in clusters, market women adjusted their wrappers in anticipation, and youths lined the approach to the town hall, waiting for what many would later describe as both timely and symbolic.
When the immediate past Special Adviser to the Ondo State Governor on Transport arrived, the atmosphere shifted. This was not just another political appearance—it carried the weight of expectation. For many in attendance, the day was less about declarations and more about what they would take home.
Then came the moment that formalised the anticipation. Standing before the crowd, Omole officially declared his bid, setting the tone for what quickly became both a political statement and a community intervention.
In a significant move to alleviate economic hardship and stimulate local growth, Akogun Omole distributed a total sum of ₦20,000,000 in cash grants to various interest groups under the newly launched Oka Community Development Support Fund.
While addressing the enthusiastic crowd at the renovated Town Hall, Akogun Omole emphasised that his decision to run was born out of a “social contract” with his people. Reflecting on his previous tenure, he noted that his commitment to service remained unshaken despite the limited resources available at the time.
“True leadership is not measured by an abundance of resources, but by the will to serve and the courage to act,” Omole stated.“I stand before you today heeding the clarion call to return to the House of Assembly to continue quality representation and ensure the free flow of the dividends of democracy.”
Invoking the words of Abraham Lincoln and Winston Churchill, he described the 2027 bid as a “divine agenda” focused on education, agriculture, and youth empowerment. He also urged constituents to maintain unwavering support for the administration of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa.
Explaining the choice of venue, Akogun Omole described the Town Hall as a “historic sanctuary.” By restoring the facility, he said, he aimed to honour the community’s heritage while creating a dignified space for collective decision-making.
“This renovation is not just about walls and paint; it is about giving our people a platform to see the light of our collective journey shine again,” he added.
The event drew high-profile political figures and community leaders, signalling strong institutional support for his candidacy. Notable guests included Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, who was represented by the Chairman of the Ondo State Universal Basic Education Board and former Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Victor Olabimtan.
Also in attendance were representatives of the Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, including Rt. Hon. Ololade Gbegudu, the Deputy Speaker; the Ondo State All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairman, Hon. Kolawole Babatunde; the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties and Strategy, Comrade Gani Mohammed Ajowa; Professor Francis Gbore, Vice Chancellor of Sam Maris University, Supare-Akoko; and Hon. Sunday Agbede, APC Chairman, Akoko South West Local Government, alongside community and religious leaders.
Several dignitaries who spoke at the event commended Omole’s commitment to grassroots development, describing the empowerment initiative and town hall renovation as timely interventions that directly impact the people. Party leaders also expressed confidence in his candidacy, urging constituents to rally behind him ahead of the 2027 elections.
Beneficiaries of the empowerment programme expressed deep gratitude, noting that the financial support would provide much-needed capital for small businesses, strengthen local security efforts, and support community development initiatives.
As the event concluded, the atmosphere across Oka-Akoko was one of renewed hope, with many describing the day’s activities as a “triumph of resilience and unity” for Akoko South West Constituency 1.
