Otunba Felix Awolaja
The Okemagba Development Association (ODA) held its maiden presidential gala at the association’s house in Eredo, declaring its commitment to closely monitor the activities of Epe leaders to ensure transparency and accountability in governance.
On Sunday, December 15, 2024, ODA members convened at Okemagba House for a grand presidential gala to officially flag off the association’s resurgence and raise funds for planned developmental projects.
The event attracted prominent political figures in Epe Local Government, including the apex political officeholder in the area, Rep. Wale Raji, Honourable Member of the House of Representatives representing Epe Federal Constituency.
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During the event, Chief Stephen Olukunle Bakare Oluwalogbon, a founding father of the association, represented by Mr. Oladele Ogundipe, reflected on the early days of the Okemagba Development Association. He emphasised the association’s historic role in driving sustainable growth and development across the 11 communities it unites: Odoajogun, Odoayan, Odogbawojo, Odoragunshin, Odoshiwola, Odoyangushin, Odoroga, Ibonwon, Igboye, Ilara, and Eredo.
Chief Oluwalogbon highlighted the group’s significant contributions to the political advancement of the Okemagba communities, positioning itself as a pressure group to ensure that the voices and will of the people are heard and respected.
Turning attention to the future of Epe youth, he posed a critical question: “Are these the youth we want to leave our legacy to?” He emphasised the urgent need for youth empowerment through employment and skill acquisition programs to “take the youth off the streets.”
In his remarks, the Vice President of the association, Prince Segun Osifeko, reaffirmed the group’s commitment to demanding accountability and transparency from Epe’s political leaders.
“We represent many things, including a pressure group. From time to time, we will call on those who represent us to provide adequate details of their activities. We will also invite our leaders to come here and account for their stewardship.
Further more, Prince Segun emphasised that the association would only guarantee full supports to only epe political leders that are actually doing their job and serving the people of epe meritoriously. “And I want to assure you that we will support any leader representing us well. Sir,” he said, addressing Rep. Wale Raji, “you are the most senior political representative of the Epe people. Just as you have done by giving us details of your work, we will continue to engage with you and extend this accountability request to leaders at every level.”
In response, Rep. Wale Raji expressed his readiness to remain accountable to the people of Epe.
“I want to assure you that I am always available,” he said. “Whenever you wish to have a conversation with me, let your members who are close to me reach out, and I will honour the invitation anytime.”
Hon. Wale Raji, Member, Federal House of Rep, Epe Federal Constituency
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