2027: ODA Hosts Stakeholders Summit, Agrees to Strategize on Actionable Steps
Ahead of the 2027 political dispensation, the Okun Development Association (ODA), the umbrella development body of the Okun people, hosted a Stakeholders Summit in Abuja to discuss the political way forward for the region.
In his welcome address, the President-General, Amb. Rotimi Akenson, said the executive under his leadership decided to convene the stakeholders’ summit to discuss pressing issues affecting the region, especially as the 2027 elections approach.
He charged stakeholders to find actionable solutions to some of the myriad challenges confronting the Okun people.
- Advertisement -
Akenson said the ODA will continue to chart a way forward to change the narrative.
The event, chaired by Professor Emeritus Olu Obafemi of the University of Ilorin, featured a presentation by Professor Omotola of the Federal University, Oye Ekiti, on why the Okun people should consider 2027 or 2031 as the best time to produce a Governor for the state.
Prince Olusola Akanmode recounted how Okun land was able to produce leaders on three consecutive occasions. Secretary to the Northern Premier, Saduna Ahmadu Bello, lamented that the leadership structure that existed then is no more available, saying everyone has now become a leader, either through contesting elections or otherwise.
He emphasized the need to reintroduce leadership that will moderate the political aspirations of the area. Professor Kupolati, the moderator, charged the participants to review the presentations and come up with a clear submission and actionable plans to move forward.
Hon. Alfred Bello opined that the easiest way for the Okun people to produce a Governor is to support the current administration led by Governor Usman Ododo in 2027, pointing out that Governor Ododo will honor his promise to hand over to the Okun people in 2031.
Dignitaries who attended the summit included Amb. Rotimi Akenson, President-General of ODA; Prince Olushola Akanmode; Professor Emeritus Olu Obafemi; Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd) Professor Erelu Ronke Bello; Hon TJ Faniyi, Otunba Olayinka Braimoh; Hon. Alfred Bello; Hon Sam Abeneme, Barrister Zachuaeus Dare Michael; Hon. Ibrahim Haruna; Hon. Philip Orebiyi; Professor Kupolati; and Professor Omotola, Mrs Sade Olobatoke among others.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, MARCH 27TH 2026)
