Ogo-Oluwa/Surulere Federal Constituency Not a Family Inheritance: We Say No to a Fouth-Term Agenda
~ Ogo/Surulere Progressive youth
The people of Ogo-Oluwa/Surulere Federal Constituency must remain vigilant and steadfast in defending the principles of democracy, fairness, accountability, and inclusive representation. Our constituency is not a family inheritance that should be transferred from one relative to another as though it were a personal estate.
For nearly two decades, political influence within the constituency remained concentrated within the same family. Before Hon. Odebunmi Olusegun “Bunvic” served 12 years in the House of Representatives. His two elder brothers had also occupied prominent political positions for approximately eight years. Despite this prolonged period of political dominance, many constituents continue to question the extent of visible and lasting development achieved during those years.
Today, they appears to be a renewed effort to return the constituency to the same political arrangement. However, the people have already expressed their preference through the ballot box by electing Hon. Ojo Sunday Makanjuola (SMATO), who defeated the former occupant and has since demonstrated a commitment to grassroots development, effective representation, and people-oriented governance.
Under Hon. SMATO’s leadership, several notable projects, and interventions have been undertaken across the constituency. Significantly, he facilitated the construction of a 2-kilometre asphalt road in Hon. Bunvic’s hometown demonstrates that development should reach every community regardless of political affiliation.
In addition, Hon. SMATO facilitated a solar mini-grid project valued at approximately ₦75 million, providing improved access to electricity and enhancing economic and social activities within the benefiting communities. In the healthcare sector, he donated ₦5 million to the Oko LAUTECH Teaching Hospital to support improved healthcare services and strengthen medical care delivery.
Furthermore, he is actively pursuing the revival of the Oko Water Dam project, a critical infrastructure initiative aimed at addressing water supply challenges and promoting sustainable development in the area. The project had reportedly remained abandoned for years despite substantial public resources having been committed to it in the past.
These are visible projects with measurable benefits for the good people of Oko. They reflect a leadership style focused on service delivery, development, and the welfare of constituents. Leadership should be evaluated based on tangible results and positive impact rather than political rhetoric or entitlement.
Democracy thrives when leadership is earned through performance, vision, competence, and the confidence of the electorate—not through family ties or political succession. Ogo-Oluwa/Surulere Federal Constituency belongs to all its people, not to any individual or family.
As another election cycle approaches, voters must continue to prioritize accountability, effective representation, and proven performance over political recycling. The future of our constituency should be determined by the collective aspirations of the people and a commitment to continued progress.
Ogo-Oluwa/Surulere Federal Constituency is not a family inheritance. We therefore reject any attempt to promote a fouth-term agenda and reaffirm our belief in democratic choice, equal opportunity, and leadership that delivers meaningful development for all.