Says Akure South Chairman Is Turning Local Government Autonomy into Tangible Benefits for the People

The Director-General of Opomulero Group/Movement, Hon. Olasupo Olakunori Michael, has commended the Executive Chairman of Akure South Local Government and Chairman of ALGON, Ondo State Chapter, Hon. Dr. Gbenga Donald Fasua, for his N80 million empowerment and environmental sanitation programme, describing it as a demonstration of people-centred leadership and grassroots governance.

According to the DG, the initiative reflects the importance of a local government administration that goes beyond political statements and delivers practical interventions that improve the lives of residents.

“Dr. Gbenga Donald Fasua is demonstrating that leadership is not about occupying an office or making promises. Leadership is about identifying the needs of the people and responding to them with action.

“An N80 million programme that covers the aged, youths, women and environmental sanitation deserves public attention because it addresses different dimensions of community welfare and development.

“From our fathers and mothers who deserve dignity in old age, to young people seeking opportunities and women working hard to sustain their families, governance must be felt by the people. This is the essence of grassroots administration.”

FASUA AND THE RESPONSIBILITY OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT LEADERSHIP

Hon. Olasupo stated that Dr. Fasua’s approach demonstrates the role local government councils can play in supporting vulnerable citizens, strengthening local economic activity and improving the environment.

He noted that empowerment initiatives should be assessed through their implementation, transparency, reach and lasting benefits to the beneficiaries.

“The people do not measure governance only by speeches. They measure it by the support they receive, the environment in which they live, the opportunities available to their children and the attention given to their needs.

“Dr. Fasua’s programme presents an opportunity to translate public resources into meaningful interventions. We encourage effective implementation and accountability so that the intended beneficiaries can experience the full value of the initiative.”

ENVIRONMENTAL SANITATION: PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN EMERGENCY RESPONSE

The Opomulero DG also commended the inclusion of drainage and waterway clearing in the programme, noting that environmental management is an important responsibility of government.

He explained that maintaining drainage systems can help reduce risks associated with blocked waterways and flooding, while emphasizing the need for sustained maintenance and professional assessment.

“A government that takes environmental sanitation seriously is paying attention to the safety and welfare of its residents. Drainage maintenance is not merely a cosmetic exercise; it is part of responsible urban management.

“We commend the focus on this area and urge the council to ensure that the work is comprehensive, properly supervised and sustained.”

Aiyedatiwa’s PEOPLE-ORIENTED GOVERNANCE AGENDA

Hon. Olasupo further linked the initiative to the broader people-oriented governance agenda of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, stating that effective local government administration can complement state-level development efforts.

He said that strong cooperation between the state government and local government councils can support development across communities.

“Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration must continue to encourage initiatives that bring government closer to the people. Local government is the closest tier of government to the grassroots, and its effectiveness matters greatly to residents.

“When local government chairmen identify community needs and deploy resources responsibly, the people have a stronger opportunity to benefit from democratic governance.”

OUR MESSAGE TO DR. FASUA

The DG Opomulero congratulated Dr. Gbenga Donald Fasua on the initiative and encouraged him to maintain transparency, inclusiveness and measurable results throughout the programme.

He also called on residents, community leaders and stakeholders to support constructive engagement and monitor the implementation of public projects.

“Dr. Fasua, the people are watching, and the responsibility is significant. Continue to prioritize the welfare of the people of Akure South.

“Empowerment must reach the intended beneficiaries. Environmental projects must deliver measurable results. Public leadership must remain accountable.

“At Opomulero, we believe that governance should be judged by its impact on the people. We welcome initiatives that advance this objective and encourage all stakeholders to support development that benefits Akure South.

Akure South deserves effective grassroots governance. Ondo State deserves development that reaches the people.

Signed:

Hon. Olasupo Olakunori Michael

Director-General,

Opomulero Group/Movement