By Mumini Abdulkareem
T he gubernatorial candidate of the Kwara state chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in next year’s governorship election, Hon Razak Atunwa has met with former councillors in the state with a promise to adopt a welfarist approach to governance if elected.
The Friday meeting, which was part of Atunwa’s engagement with critical stakeholders in the state ahead of the poll had in attendance the ex-councillors from 1999 to date.
While addressing them in his GRA residence, the immediate past Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly said his administration if elected will adopt a holistic approach to governance that will lead to the provision of the needed infrastructural development and people-oriented policies for people of the state.
He noted that the state had enjoyed steady development under the Saraki political leaderships adding that he would ensure he continue and prioritise the welfarist ideology and concepts the late Baba Saraki was legendary for.
According to him, the councillors are the closest to the grassroots and they occupy a very important part in the way the people perceive the government.
He promised to always carry them along on matters of their wellbeing to avoid friction when the PDP hopefully form the next government in the state next year.
“The councillors whether serving or past are the closest to the grassroot and very close to the people. I am a proud student of the late Baba Sarakiโs School of politics and with the support of the successor to that dynasty, Dr Bukola Saraki, our government if elected will work to bring back the good old days in Kwara State.
“For all of you that are here, I thank you immensely for the unflinching support and loyalty you have shown to this government and our leader despite the glaring challenges.
“But on my own part, I promised to carry you along before, during and after the campaign in government and that will not only translate to appointive positions when we are finally elected by the grace of God, but we will fashion out how to ensure that we pay all your commitment andย entitlement within the shortest possible time.
“Councillors are valuable members of the society and they have value to contribute to governance in the state”, he added.
Earlier, Hon Adisa Oladimeji Opele who represented the 2013-2016 set, thanked Atunwa for the invitation which he said has demonstrated that the PDP governorship candidate has the interest of the councilors and the people of the state at heart adding that they are ready to support him to emerge the next governor of Kwara State.
Meanwhile, the Magagis and Alanguas Forum in Ilorin Emirate has drummed support for the PDP’s gubernatorial candidate in the 2019 general elections, Hon Razak Atunwa.
In attendance were the Magajis and Alanguas from the five local governments which constituted the Emirate in the state.
The spokesperson for the traditional chiefs and the Magaji Nda of Ilorin, Dr Solihu Woru Mohammed said Atunwa will be the first governorship aspirant to honour the council of chiefs and pledge their full supports for his candidacy.
He said the group which comprised of about 800 members were satisfied with the emergence of Atunwa adding that they are convinced he has what it takes to take the state to the next level of development.
He prayed for sustainable peace and development across the state.
Responding, Atunwa thanked them for the visit and solicited for their continued support and prayers for him and the state.
He acknowledged the importance of the chiefs in the society and revealed that a channel of communication will be opened so as to ensure smooth governance if elected.
Also, the National Association of Kwara State Students (NAKSS) equally met with Atunwa where they declared their support for him.
The association which was represented by their excos highlighted the issues of their entitlements and bursary and solicited for the lawmaker’s assistance if he gets into office.
The President of the Association, Comrade Musa Mohammed Mancha said they believe Atunwa is the one who can make positive impact on the welfare of Kwara State Students home and abroad, hence the reason for supporting him.
Atunwa appreciated the efforts of NAKSS for the visit and their trust in him.
