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Says state would have achieved more in five decades
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From Laide Raheem, Abeokuta
As Ogun continues to celebrate 50 years of its creation, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, Toyin Amuzu, has called for sober reflection on the journey of the state since its creation in 1976, rather than rolling out the drums to commemorate the golden jubilee.
He urged the incumbent administration in the state to carry out an honest assessment of progress made and opportunities missed, rather than marking the milestone with fanfare and celebration alone.
Amuzu argued that Ogun would have achieved more if successive administrations had placed stronger emphasis on development, sincerity, and purposeful governance.
The House of Representatives candidate of the PDP for the Abeokuta Federal Constituency in the 2023 general election made this call on Tuesday while speaking with journalists in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.
He said that the golden jubilee should serve as a turning point and that leaders across party lines should recommit to people-centred governance and long-term development planning.
“Ogun at 50 should not just be a celebration of age, but a call to conscience and a commitment to building a future that truly serves the people,” Amuzu pointed out.
He stressed the need for policies that outlive administrations and leadership that views governance as stewardship rather than entitlement.
He maintained that inconsistency in policies, lack of continuity, and excessive focus on politics rather than long-term development have slowed the pace of progress over the years.
“Ogun’s challenge has never been a lack of capacity or potential. It has largely been a challenge of sustained focus, sincerity, and purpose in governance.
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“Ogun State at 50 is a moment to thank God for the journey so far, but it is also a time to ask critical questions about where we are and where we ought to be,” he said.
He noted that the state has largely remained peaceful and has continued to produce outstanding citizens who have contributed significantly to national development, describing Ogun as a state rich in human capital and pointing out that indigenes of the state have excelled in education, law, medicine, business, politics, arts, and public service both within Nigeria and abroad.
He added that the fact that the state has endured political transitions, economic challenges, and national uncertainties over the years is itself worthy of thanksgiving.
Amuzu paid tribute to the founding fathers of Ogun State, saying their vision was to build a state anchored on education, industrial growth, discipline, cultural pride, and service to the people, adding that their sacrifices and foresight must be acknowledged and honoured.
The PDP chieftain, however, expressed concern that Ogun State, given its strategic location and advantages, should be more developed than it is currently.
He observed that the state’s proximity to Lagos, its vast landmass, and its educated population have placed it in a unique position to lead in infrastructure, industrialisation and economic growth, which are still lacking.
The PDP chieftain reiterated his belief in democratic governance that prioritises inclusion, accountability, and development, adding that Ogun State deserves leadership driven by service and legacy.
He said, “While Ogun State has made notable achievements in its first 50 years, its greatest potential still lies ahead.
“With renewed focus, sincerity, and purposeful leadership, the next phase of the state’s history could better reflect the vision of its founding fathers,” Amuzu submitted.
