Governance should go beyond election gestures – Sowunmi-Kolapo tells politicians

Lateefat Sowunmi-Kolapo, the deputy governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State, has criticized politicians for reducing governance to mere election gestures. She emphasized that effective governance should be measured by leaders' ability to identify issues, provide sustainable solutions, and enhance citizens' quality of life.

Sowunmi-Kolapo made these remarks while welcoming Toyin Amuzu, the PDP candidate for Abeokuta South Federal Constituency, who was visiting her as part of the campaign preparations for the 2027 House of Representatives election.

Amuzu's recent intervention in the Ibara-Omida community, where he helped resolve a long-standing issue with a faulty transformer, led to Sowunmi-Kolapo's critique. She questioned why residents had endured prolonged darkness for what she deemed a relatively simple problem, which only a private individual like Amuzu could resolve.

Sowunmi-Kolapo argued that this incident highlighted the distinction between leaders who genuinely prioritize their constituents' welfare and those whose political actions are primarily aimed at impressing voters, especially during election seasons.

She also lambasted the All Progressives Congress (APC) for relying on extravagant spending, termed "Greek gifts," and empty political displays as tactics to win elections. Sowunmi-Kolapo praised Amuzu's efforts, acknowledging that they exemplify the kind of people-centered leadership the PDP stands for. In return, Amuzu reaffirmed his dedication to serving the people of Abeokuta South and pledged to continue supporting his constituency's needs whenever necessary, aiming to represent them effectively and utilize legislative opportunities for meaningful development.