Civil Society Groups Validate Gov. Adeleke’s Impressive Performance In Osun

By Ayodele Oni

A group of Civil Society Organizations, (CSOs) has attested to the performance of Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration in the last two years.

The group members were in Osun state to assess the activities of the administration during the celebration of the mid tenure activities.

Speaking at a press conference in Osogbo, on Thursday, the leader of the group, Declan Ihekaire, flanked by two other members stated that “We engaged with residents in some local government areas who shared their experiences of good governance under Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration.

“We are a group of selected civil society leaders on a review and assessment mission to Osun State. Our aim is to hold leaders accountable and ensure the delivery of good governance.

“We are not affiliated with any political party or partisan caucus. We are veterans of the pro-democracy movement in Nigeria and have a history of activism.

“Over the past week, we have toured major towns in Osun State, including Ife, Ede, Ilesha, Osogbo, and Ifon-Osun. We conducted an unguarded inspection of various projects under the current administration.”

Ihekaire acknowledged that the government has implemented numerous infrastructural and human development projects while maintaining a people-friendly approach that values citizens’ opinions and critiques.

”These achievements are commendable and reflect the governor’s commitment to fulfilling his promises.

“It is on record that during the previous administration, we conducted a similar review. From our unbiased perspective, we can boldly state that Governor Adeleke’s administration has achieved significant milestones and deserves commendation for its efforts so far.”

The group highlighted their attendance at an expanded town hall meeting on 27th November 2024, where Governor Adeleke presented his scorecard.

They matched their on-site findings with the governor’s claims and described the results as overwhelmingly positive.

“Our findings show that the current government enjoys unparalleled support from the people, as evidenced by the enthusiasm displayed by citizens during our activities.

“This affirms Governor Adeleke’s high popularity and strong grassroots influence.

“Based on these findings, we urge the governor to remain steadfast in his commitment to good governance and to avoid distractions.

“He must continue to uphold his high service delivery standards and expand the scope of his democratic achievements.”

The group, however  appealed to the state government to assist in addressing the deplorable conditions of inmates at the Ilesha Correctional Centre.

Reports indicate that inmates awaiting trial at the facility are in dire need of basic amenities such as potable water and essential infrastructure.

It described the conditions at the facility as appalling and urged the state government to urgently provide the necessary facilities to improve the welfare of the inmates.

“The condition of the Ilesha Correctional Centre is not good enough. During our visit, we observed the state of the facility, and it was evident that urgent intervention is needed.

“These inmates deserve a better quality of life, especially as they are presumed innocent until proven otherwise.”