By Olawale Ogunbusola, Ibadan

The governorship candidate of the Action Democratic Party (ADP) in Oyo State, Hon. Kunle Olatunji, popularly known as KTJ, has declared that Oyo State has suffered years of rudderless and retrogressive governance under the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Olatunji, who is seeking to succeed Governor Seyi Makinde in 2027, said it was time for the people of the state to use their votes to reject incompetence, mediocrity and wastefulness.

In a statement on Monday by his Campaign Organisation, KOCO, titled “KTJ 2027: Divinely Inspired, People’s Mandate,” the ADP candidate said successive administrations have failed to harness the enormous human and economic potential of Oyo State.

He lamented that the state’s development aspirations have been undermined by poor governance, misplaced priorities, unfulfilled promises and missed economic opportunities, describing the situation as a setback to the collective aspirations of the people.

“The prevailing realities confronting our people make it imperative to critically assess the performance of political parties and their candidates before 2027. What we have seen is a lack of empathy, accountability and genuine commitment to the welfare of the people,” Olatunji said.

He described as troubling that despite its enormous resources, Oyo State has failed to become a leading centre of investment, innovation and sustainable development due to business-as-usual politics.

According to him, his aspiration to govern the state is divinely inspired and driven by the people’s mandate to provide quality leadership, strategic direction and institutional discipline required to unlock the state’s potential.

“This is precisely why I have offered myself to serve as the next Governor of Oyo State in 2027. My aspiration is not merely about occupying political office; it is about providing the quality leadership required to unlock the enormous potential of our state,” he stated.

Olatunji said his administration, if elected, would be anchored on collectivism, synergy and partnership with professionals, entrepreneurs, investors, community leaders, organised labour, youths and artisans to build a competent and inclusive government.

He expressed confidence that an ADP-led government would reposition the state’s economy, strengthen productive sectors, promote investment, create jobs and deliver inclusive growth and shared prosperity.

The ADP candidate urged the electorate to see the 2027 election as an opportunity to redefine the state’s political and economic direction, stressing that the future of Oyo should not be entrusted to leaders who lack character, capacity and commitment to public service.

“It is time to say no to horrible governance. Vote for purposeful leadership. Vote for a New Dawn. Oyo State deserves better. For me and the team that will form the next ADP-led government, it shall truly be a New Order for a New Dawn,” Olatunji declared.