Kunle Adelabu
The representative of Ikorodu federal constituency, and Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Defence, Rep. Babajimi Adegoke Benson, has adduced reasons why residents of Ikorodu and Lagosians in general should vote the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat.
The federal lawmaker who said the APC candidate left a lasting impression on him with his intellect, experience and knowledge of the state, spoke at his Renewed Hope Mega Empowerment hosted at the Ikorodu Musical Village on Tuesday.
Rep. Benson said Dr. Hamzat first impressed him some years ago when he adduced compelling reasons to establish that Lagos population was more than the federal government stated that it was.
“Ladies and gentlemen, I also want to speak about a man I have come to admire, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat. I first came to appreciate his qualities during the dispute that arose between the state and federal government during the National Census Programme when the issue of the Lagos State population figure was being disputed by the Lagos State government under the leadership of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“He was a young man then with chubby cheeks who approached the issue with tact, figures and with empirical evidence.”
“ Can you believe that he also made a book out of those differences and disputes?”
Rep. Benson added: “He made a compelling case that the population of Lagos was not 9 million but was over 17million and that we were undercounted and that the implications of the undercounting went beyond statistics to the resources and opportunities that will be available to our people of Lagos State.”
The three term lawmaker lauded Dr. Hamzat’s deep understanding of issues and as such, advocated for support for him to be the next Governor of Lagos State.
“What impressed me was his ability to combine intellect with courage and a deep understanding of the issues affecting Lagos.”
“That experience left a lasting impression on me. I believe that with this wealth of experience, energy and understanding of the state, incoming Governor Hamzat will be well positioned to champion the interest of Ikorodu Division and ensure our people receive their fair share of opportunity in (and from) Government.” Rep. Benson said.
He assured residents of Ikorodu Division of accelerated development under the administration of the APC candidate, while urging them to ensure the delivery of a minimum of 250, 000 votes come next General Elections.
“When Ikorodu delivers 250,000 votes (in 2027), we must ensure that those votes translate into meaningful practical inclusion and development.”
“As a member of his campaign council, and working with him at close proximity, I assure you that with Dr, Hamzat in the saddle, we’ll see the opportunity to combine the development vision of Lateef Jakande; the political and economic experience of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu; the infrastructural drive associated with BRF; the experience of Akinwunmi Ambode and the on-going development agenda of Governor Jide Sanwo-olu.”
The Chairman Defence Committee emphasised that Lagos needs someone with good understanding of its issues and its complexities
“We need leadership that understands Lagos in all its complexities. We need a man who knows Gbogbo “woro si woro” of Lagos politics, communities and development.”
Highlighting some of Dr. Hamzat’s agenda for Lagos, Rep. Benson highlighed the impacts of his planned decentralisation of governance, 4th Mainland bridge, Ikorodu Industrial Estate and improved business environment.
“Dr. Hamzat has spoken about decentralising government operations at Alausa. He said Alausa will not just be at Ikeja and that they’ll take some of its sections to the real indigenes.
“Help me beg him that he should give us (in Ikorodu) the department of land.
He has also promised to fast track the 4th Mainland Bridge. He also has a Big Vision for Odogunyan Industrial Estate. He said he would install 24-hours power at the biggest Industrial Estate in West Africa.”
“He has promised he will build infrastructure in the Odogunyan Industrial Estate. This will improve the business environment, attract investments, support our industries and create jobs for our young people.”
While noting that his administration will bring about better governance in the state, the Ikorodu federal representative also said that the APC Deputy Governorship candidate will be an inspiration to Lagos youths.
“With Hamzat in the saddle, I believe Lagos will continue to enjoy improved infrastructure, stronger law and order and a more efficient system of government. Even our political opponente will live in Lagos to enjoy its benefit once Hamzat enters as governor.”
“I must also acknowledge the incoming deputy governor, Her Excellency, Damilola Sonayon James. Her journey is an inspiration to the young people. To our young people, I say this for you. Do not give up on yourselves. Continue to learn, continue to work and continue to prepare for opportunities,” he charged.
