Governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Oyo State, Olooye Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke (FCA), has vowed to grant full autonomy to local governments if elected governor in 2027, declaring that grassroots development can only thrive when councils are empowered to function independently.
Adegoke also promised to strengthen traditional institutions by ensuring the prompt release of their statutory five per cent allocation from local government funds.
The ADC flagbearer made the pledge during a visit to the party’s federal constituency headquarters in Oyo Federal Constituency, comprising Atiba, Afijio, Oyo West and Oyo East local government areas.
Welcoming the governorship hopeful, Mr. Muse Abiola described Adegoke as a tested and trusted leader whose track record speaks for itself, assuring him of massive support from party members ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
Responding, Olooye Adegoke, a Fellow of Chartered Accountants (FCA), Aare Egbe Omo Balogun of Ibadanland and philanthropist, expressed appreciation for the warm reception and pledged not to disappoint the people if entrusted with the mandate to govern Oyo State.
He described local government autonomy as a progressive policy capable of transforming communities and bringing governance closer to the people.
“I am a strong supporter of local government autonomy because local governments are the closest tier of government to the people. When elected local government officials have the authority and resources to function effectively, development will naturally reach the grassroots,” Adegoke said.
According to him, local councils are better positioned to address the needs of rural communities, including the grading and maintenance of feeder roads, which directly impact the daily lives of residents.
The ADC governorship candidate maintained that traditional institutions would also benefit immensely from council autonomy, as their five per cent statutory allocation would be released promptly without unnecessary delays.
Expressing confidence in his chances at the polls, Adegoke assured the people that his administration would be anchored on fairness, equity and justice for all sections of the state.
He stated that allocations accruing to Oyo State from the Federation Account are sufficient to drive meaningful development across the state if properly managed.
Drawing from his background as a financial expert, Adegoke promised prudent management of public resources and accountability in governance.
He further pledged to embark on massive infrastructural development across the state upon assuming office in May 2027, stressing that his administration would focus on delivering tangible benefits to the people and accelerating socio-economic growth.
