The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Ogun State, Ladi Adebutu, has expressed concern over the deplorable condition of communities in the state bordering Lagos State.

He promised to set up a commission to develop the border areas if elected as governor of the state in 2027.

He made the pledge on Thursday during the Ogun West Governorship Campaign Flag-Off in Ipokia, where many PDP members and supporters trooped out to receive him.

The PDP candidate expressed dismay over the poor state of roads and infrastructure in the Ipokia Local Government Area, which he observed while travelling to the campaign venue.

Mr Adebutu vowed to tackle the neglect and underdevelopment in Ogun West senatorial district, saying his administration would implement full local government autonomy and ensure direct allocation of funds to the grassroots.

According to him, local government development payments will be restored to improve the lot of residents in the rural communities.

“I stand here in Ipokia today to make a promise to establish a border development commission. Enough of abandonment.

“For too long, our people who trade across the border and even grassroots residents have been left behind. No access roads, no potable water, no health centre and other social amenities.

“That ends when we take over government. We shall give dedicated attention and development to border communities,” he said.

Mr Adebutu stressed the need for transparent governance, arguing that the government must directly benefit the people.

On the welfare of workers and pensioners, the PDP candidate assured that their sacrifices would not be in vain.

He promised to ensure regular payment of pensions and settle outstanding obligations owed to workers.

Mr Adebutu condemned what he described as fraud in cooperative deductions, vowing to stamp out the practice and restore accountability.

He decried the level of hunger and infrastructural decay, adding that residents pleaded with him to bring succour when elected.

He urged the electorate not to let greed influence their choice at the polls, appealing to residents to come out en masse to vote in the next elections.

“This is election season. Those who failed to improve your condition will come out again to make empty promises. They will even offer you money.

“Do not listen to them. Do not let greed decide your future. Come out and vote, because every vote counts,” Mr Adebutu said.

The issues raised by Mr Adebutu in Ipokia aligned with his broader campaign mantra, “ITURA DE,” which prioritises local government autonomy, workers’ welfare and the development of rural and border communities.

The PDP candidate was accompanied by the state PDP Chairman, Abayomi Tella, and the PDP senatorial candidate for Ogun West, Babatunde Ogunola, also known as Tomo, among other party leaders.

 (NAN)