The Contact and Mobilisation Committee of Owo Local Government held its inaugural meeting on October 31 at the Local Government Party Secretariat in Oke-Ogun, Owo, to formulate strategies for the upcoming Ondo State gubernatorial election set for November 16.
Attended by 45 committee members, the meeting focused on coordinated efforts to strengthen the party’s local presence and secure widespread voter support.
In his opening remarks, Chief Olufemi Omosanya, the committee chairman, formally inaugurated the group and stressed the importance of dedicated outreach and community engagement.
He highlighted recent political appointments within Owo by the deputy governor as a demonstration of the party’s commitment to the area and called on members to work toward an “outstanding victory” as a reciprocal show of support. Chief Omosanya urged members to adopt a house-to-house campaign strategy, prioritizing voter appreciation rather than vote-buying.
Mr. Samuel Balogun, the Local Government Party Chairman, encouraged members to “buckle up for the task ahead.” He emphasized that securing a substantial win would enhance Owo’s bargaining power within the state, paving the way for more favorable appointments and resources in the future.
Committee members expressed concerns about funding and the logistics of mobilization. Hon. Wale Thomas advised against any actions that could lead to post-election legal disputes, stressing the need for prudence. He called for collaboration with the deputy governor and the Commissioner for Finance to secure financial support for campaign activities. Hon. Rabiu Oluwasegun cautioned against underestimating the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), which he noted is gaining voter sympathy due to economic challenges affecting constituents.
In a similar vein, Hon. Tope Omolayo advocated for the effective use of local resources, advising committee members to focus on grassroots mobilization. Chief Tunde Olaposi echoed this sentiment, urging committee members to build relationships with voters at the unit level to foster trust and community support.
Several members proposed a more personalized campaign approach. Hon. Bolanle Olajide and Mr. Tolu Ogunbadejo suggested that emphasizing the candidacy of an “Owo son” would encourage a sense of unity and resonate with local pride, rather than focusing solely on party affiliation.
Chief Alaba Ajipe underscored the committee’s role in mobilizing resources for the campaign and acknowledged the financial strain affecting communities nationwide. He noted that the deputy governor remains active in the campaign’s preparations and that consistent meetings would be crucial to maintaining cohesion among members.
Security concerns were also raised. Mr. Obadaiye inquired about the safety measures in place for campaign activities. Chief Omosanya assured attendees that a dedicated security team would handle these issues to ensure a safe campaign environment.
Hon. Yinka Anunobi noted an increase in food requests among voters, acknowledging that economic hardship may influence voter sentiment.
Additionally, Hon. Olusola Alajo announced an upcoming rally led by the governors of Kogi and Ondo States, specifically targeting the Igbira community. Chief Ajipe clarified that this rally is exclusive to that community, and that other campaign activities would continue across Owo.
Mr. Michael Ale, who commended members for their dedication also said that plans are underway for further meetings with party leaders and community elders were announced, along with a forthcoming centralized meeting at the local government unit level to finalize preparations.
The well attended were amongst Prof. Bayo Fatukasi, Dean of Faculty, AAU, Akungba, Princess Funmilayo Ademulegun-Brown, Commissioner II, Ondo State SUBEB, Mr. HK Bello, Mr. Olatunbosun Oladimeji, Chairman, Media Committee, Ayedatiwa/Adelami Owo Local Government Campaign Organisation, Chief Alaba Ajipe, Secretary, Campaign Council and Chairman, Owo North LCDA, Chief Monday Olanitori,Chief Babatunde Olaposi,Mr. Sikiru Obanoyen, Hon. Samuel Advised, Hon. Maxwell Omosua, Hon. O.J. Lawal and other notable party leaders.
*Report by Jimoh Ahmed for the Media Committee, Ayedatiwa/Adelami Owo Local Government Campaign Organisation
