Ogun LG Poll: Afolabi Odulate Showcases Achievements, Seeks Second Term In Sagamu
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The immediate past Chairman of Sagamu Local Government, Ogbeni Afolabi Odulate, has laid out his achievements and vision for the future during a media parley held at his campaign office in Ijagba, Sagamu. In a candid session with journalists, Odulate fielded questions about his administration and plans for the next term should he secure reelection.
Reflecting on his administration, Odulate emphasized that his performance is best judged by the people of Sagamu. “My scorecard is with the people, but it’s important to also share it with the media, considering their role as the fourth estate of the realm in driving the progress and development of Sagamu, Ogun State, and Nigeria at large,” he remarked.
Odulate assumed office on July 26, 2021, and described his initial experience as challenging. “When I took office, what I met on the ground didn’t meet my expectations,” he confessed. Nonetheless, he expressed gratitude to the governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for his consistent support in ensuring the smooth running of the local government, particularly given the strategic importance of Sagamu.
Upon taking office, Odulate adopted the Build, Operate, Transfer (B.O.T) model, a strategy he believes enabled him to make impactful, albeit understated, progress. “I believe in silent achievement. There’s no need for fanfare when we can let our work speak for itself,” he stated.
One of his proud accomplishments, he noted, is the construction of several roads using heavy-duty interlocking materials—a first for Sagamu. Among the roads completed under his administration are Cinema road, Saw Mill Ijokun road, Hilltop road, and Ademola Awosanya Street in Ajaka.
Odulate also addressed the issue of infrastructure inadequacies he encountered, such as the lack of a functional grader in the entire council. With assistance from two transport unions and additional funds, his administration repaired a total condemned grader at the cost of ₦7.3 million.
Further achievements include the ongoing construction of the Falawoo Market building and the Ogijo Alaba International Market, which is about 70% complete. In education, his administration provided over 130 two-seater chairs and tables to address the lack of furniture in primary schools across Sagamu. Moreover, 150 solar-powered streetlights were installed in critical areas to enhance security.
In terms of security, Odulate’s administration procured two vehicles and four motorcycles to support local security efforts, working in collaboration with the Palace to ensure the safety of Sagamu’s residents.
When asked about his unaccomplished goals, Odulate highlighted plans for a job centre where Sagamu youths could upload their CVs, making it easier for companies to find local talent. He also mentioned a proposed farm settlement to facilitate agricultural transactions within the community.
Commenting on the recently granted local government autonomy, Odulate expressed cautious optimism. “Autonomy is a welcome development, but it comes with significant responsibilities—salaries, pensions, chieftaincy matters, primary education, healthcare, budgeting, and more. I am committed to ensuring that we manage these responsibilities effectively,” he said.
As the session concluded, Odulate was questioned about his confidence in securing his party’s ticket for a second term. “With my scorecard, I am confident that the leaders, stakeholders, and loyal members of our great party, the APC, will support my candidacy, and I will emerge victorious in the upcoming council election,” he affirmed.
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