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The head of the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, has urged governors in the South-West to focus on the region’s growth rather than political interests.

Fasoranti called on the governors to collaborate for the shared advancement of the region, cautioning that conflicts based on political affiliations were harmful to the well-being and growth of the Yoruba community.

The senior leader took the initiative during the South-West leaders’ meeting with federal government officials in Akure, the capital of Ondo State, on Wednesday. The gathering had the theme “Strengthening Democracy through Dialogue: Evaluating Achievements, Shaping the Future.”

Led by Senator Femi Okunronmu, the Afenifere representative emphasized that politics should not threaten Yoruba solidarity or delay development initiatives.

“Politics should not undermine Yoruba unity. It has deeply infiltrated the core of our togetherness. I have seen development projects left unfinished merely because they were started by governments from opposing political parties. This needs to stop now,” Fasoranti stated.

He stated that advancement and growth should not be influenced by political connections.

Progress is not confined to any political party; advancement transcends partisan lines. The well-being of our citizens should remain the core of all political beliefs.

“Each Yoruba child should be guaranteed access to good education, medical care, job possibilities, and essential services. These should be key points in the platforms of every political party,” he further stated.

Fasoranti called on governors and ministers from the South-West to work together regardless of their political affiliations, calling this partnership vital for the region’s development and cohesion.

“Officials from the South-West should not overlook the fact that they stand for the people. They need to promote regional growth and collaborate with state governments irrespective of party leadership. We must avoid the politics of resentment, prioritize development over party politics, and emphasize unity over division,” he stated.

In his comments, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the Governor of Ondo State, stated that the discussion was well-timed, offering a forum for regional leaders to discuss approaches for long-term growth.

“This conference takes place at a fortunate moment, with a distinct theme that aligns with the core of democracy—discussion, compromise, and agreement-making,” he stated.

We need to reflect on how much progress we’ve made as a nation, where we have faced challenges, and what actions we must take collectively to create a Nigeria that is deserving of our children and future generations.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in his remarks, emphasized that democracy flourishes through genuine, inclusive, and forward-thinking conversation, highlighting that the unity shown at the summit would enhance the region.

Sanwo-Olu praised President Bola Tinubu for creating the South-West Development Commission, calling it a significant move to boost regional development.

“The establishment of the South-West Development Commission offers an institutional framework for us to strategize, coordinate, and implement the transformation that previously characterized the former Western Region,” he stated.

Let us come together with this committee, not only in words but in deeds.

A former leader of Osun State, Chief Bisi Akande, referred to the summit as a revival of the Yoruba practice of group discussion and community development. He further encouraged the region to back President Tinubu’s economic initiatives.

“The South-West should lead Nigeria’s transformation. Our agricultural, technological, and manufacturing industries need to fuel lasting growth and development,” Akande stated.

Notable attendees at the event were Osun State Deputy Governor Kola Adewusi, who stood in for Governor Ademola Adeleke; Ogun State Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele, representing Governor Dapo Abiodun; Ekiti State Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, who acted on behalf of Governor Biodun Oyebanji; and Oyo State Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, representing Governor Seyi Makinde.

Also present were the Coordinating Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun; Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu; Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Salako; and Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola.

Notable traditional leaders present were the Aláàfin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade; the Olowo of Owo and Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye; the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi; and the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Michael Gbadebo.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).