…Highlights Gaps in Education, Healthcare, Agriculture
By Fatima Saka
The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Oyo State, Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli, has expressed gratitude to God, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and his supporters following his emergence, declaring that his victory was divinely orchestrated.
“I am not desperate. I left everything in the hands of Almighty God, and He has done it,” Alli said.
The lawmaker, who currently represents Oyo South Senatorial District and chairs the Senate Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions, made this assertioned on Monday in Abuja during a brief interaction with staff and associates who gathered to celebrate his emergence.
Alli, visibly moved by the surprise reception, thanked President Tinubu, fellow senators, aides, and loyal supporters for their encouragement throughout his political journey.
“I am very happy today. I didn’t know the staff were planning this for me. We’ve been together for about three years, and it has been a period of le
arning and service,” he said.
Reflecting on his emergence into the National Assembly in 2023, the senator noted that while the journey was not without challenges, he remained steadfast, guided by faith and a strong sense of duty.
As political activities gather momentum ahead of the governorship race, Alli signalled his intention to embark on wide-ranging reforms across critical sectors. Although he declined to unveil a detailed policy blueprint, he identified key areas requiring urgent intervention.
According to him, education in Oyo State has suffered neglect, while healthcare facilities remain in poor condition. He also lamented the insufficient attention given to agriculture, stressing the need to reposition the sector for economic growth.
“Education has been neglected. Health facilities are in a bad state, and agriculture is not being given its rightful place,” he stated.
The senator further underscored the importance of improving transportation infrastructure, recalling previous rail development plans that were not fully realised.
The event featured goodwill messages from colleagues and associates, who described Alli as a humble, principled, and capable leader with strong prospects in the forthcoming election.
Senator Adeniyi Ayodele Adegbonmire, in his remarks, expressed confidence in Alli’s chances, urging him to remain selfless and committed to public service.
“When you get into office, let it not be about yourself. I have watched you over the past three years, and you have remained humble. I foresee great things for you in Oyo State. I have no doubt you will win the general election,” he said.
Other speakers echoed similar sentiments, offering prayers and words of encouragement while highlighting Alli’s honesty, accessibility, and straightforward nature.
A colleague described him as “a very honest and straightforward person,” noting that such qualities are rare in politics but essential for credible leadership. He added that supporters would continue to stand by him, emphasising that their “quota is prayer” for his success.
Senator Anthony Okorie Ani also stressed the importance of good health alongside political ambition, cautioning against neglecting personal well-being.
“We must pray not only for success but for good health and strength. Like a farmer who prays for rain but forgets to pray for health, when the rain comes, he may not be able to go to the farm,” he said.
Staff members and aides shared personal experiences, portraying Alli as approachable and supportive. One staff member described him as a father figure with an open-door policy that fosters inclusiveness and trust.
“Everyone speaks well of him. From what I have seen, he is a good and gallant man. People are ready to support him,” the staff member said.
Speakers acknowledged that leadership comes with challenges and that it is impossible to satisfy everyone, but expressed confidence in Alli’s capacity to navigate governance effectively.
The gathering ended with strong endorsements from attendees, many of whom described him as a “governor-in-waiting,” while offering prayers for divine guidance, strength, and victory at the polls.
Distinct News Nigeria reports that the APC governorship race taken a firm shape in Oyo State, the show of support reflects growing internal backing for Alli, even as political dynamics within the party continue to evolve.
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