Market leaders across Ibadan North Local Government have thrown their weight behind the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle, popularly known as DON, ahead of the August 16 House of Representatives bye-election.
The endorsement came during a crucial meeting convened in Ibadan North Local Government.
The gathering brought together leaders of 17 major market groups across the local government area, united in their resolve to support the PDP flagbearer.
Speaking at the meeting, the Babaloja of Bodija Market, Alhaji S.A. Jimoh, stated unequivocally that the market community in Bodija stands firmly behind anything associated with Governor Seyi Makinde.
“Our unshakable support for Hon. Folajimi DON is a direct reflection of our admiration and trust in the leadership of Governor Makinde,” he said.
Alhaji Jimoh also expressed appreciation to Governor Makinde for fulfilling his promise to the market by donating a brand-new 18-seater bus to the Foodstuff Sellers Association, Bodija Branch.
He commended the Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade, whom he described as a respectful, humble, and visionary leader.
According to him, “Hon. Olufade’s administration has brought uncommon development to our markets and the entire local government.”
The Babaloja of Ibadan North, Alhaji Muniru Bolaji, also praised Governor Makinde for his exceptional leadership and for surrounding himself with capable individuals.
He declared full support for Hon. Folajimi DON, noting that, “Whoever the Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade, is backing, we are backing as well because he has proven to be a man of integrity.”
The Iyaloja of Ibadan North Local Government, Chief (Mrs.) Borode Omotayo, emphasized that the market leaders, speaking with one voice, have adopted Hon. Folajimi DON as their candidate and pledged to deliver victory for the PDP come August 16.
In his response, Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle expressed profound gratitude to the market men and women for their overwhelming support.
He thanked them for standing with Governor Makinde and Hon. Olufade and promised to offer qualitative and inclusive representation if elected.
“I will always be available to support you and will never take your support for granted,” he assured.
The Executive Chairman of Akinyele Local Government, Hon. Wole Akinleye, who made an unplanned appearance at the meeting, commended the market leaders for their steadfast support for Governor Makinde and the PDP.
He assured them that Hon. Folajimi DON would not disappoint.
In his remarks, Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade, Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, appreciated the market leaders for their unwavering support.
He promised to sustain his people-centered approach to governance and maintain a strong partnership with the markets in Ibadan North.
Notable market leaders present at the meeting included:Alhaji Chief Muniru Bolaji (Babaloja, Ibadan North)Chief (Mrs.) Borode Omotayo (Iyaloja, Ibadan North) Alhaji S.A. Jimoh (Babaloja, Bodija Market)Alhaja Chief Sikirat Adebayo Tantoloun (Iyaloja, Bodija)Alhaji Dauda Adegbenro (Chairman, Bodija Market)Iyaloja of Sango Market.
A host of other market leaders from across Ibadan North Local Government were also in attendance.
Markets represented included: Mokola, Ifelodun Bodija, Isokan Bodija, Irepodun Bodija, Vegetable Bodija, Binukonu Bodija, Ode Oolo, 30-30 Bodija, Betterlife Bodija (Iso Pako), Sango Ojurin, Sango Garage, Kara Ojurin Bodija, Oke Itunu, Gbaremu, General Bodija, Ilupeju Bodija, and Ijokodo.
As the bye-election draws near, this strong show of support from the economic backbone of Ibadan North adds significant momentum to Hon. Folajimi DON’s candidacy under the PDP banner.
