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From Wole Balogun, Ado-Ekiti
Babatunde Oladejo Alegbeleye is based in United States of America, but has his eyes on the governor’s seat in Ekiti State. The election is due in 2018. He spoke with Daily Sun in Ado-Ekiti.
Why do you want to be governor of Ekiti State?
I believe Ekiti-State Government needs a structural change to how it delivers the needed services to its citizens. I have the ability, skills and knowledge of how an efficient government works. During my interactions with different classes of people, I realise that there is a lot of poverty. This is a scandal when we have so many riches and resources for everyone. The government has failed the citizens and my question is not what can the state do for me, it is what can I do for Ekiti-State?
How would you assess the performance of the current state government?
The current government is behaving as if the welfare of the citizens is peripheral to its purpose and certainly not the basis of its legitimacy. The state is in infrastructure quandary; lack of finance for needed improvements and for public works projects.
According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Ekiti is one of the states with the lowest internally generated revenue. When I am governor this will be reversed.
How would your experience in leadership in the Diaspora assist in governing the state?
My core leadership values of integrity, commitment, advocacy, respect and excellence have called upon me to serve as the next governor. I make informed decisions and solve problems by seeking out appropriate knowledge and expertise to formulate solutions to emerging problems and/or situations, acting ethically throughout the decision-making process, and having the courage to take responsibility for the outcome.
What benefits would your exposure and connections bring for the people if elected as governor?
I believe my plans to utilise advanced technology in creating smart city/smart state to deliver services to the citizens establish statewide statistics to provide timely and seamless data; provide transparency throughout the government sector. These will educate civil servants about the new way forward.
Eliminate 90 percent of budgetary waste; monitor cost to evaluate for savings and curb wasteful spending.
What is plan for the industrialization of the state?
My plan to industrialize the state evolves from my knowledge and understanding that money has to serve and not to rule. I will democratize access to
money and this will help those in need of empowerment to start a business. When there is work, there is dignity.
My administration will propose tax incentives that will make the state an attractive place for businesses. The challenge of youth unemployment will be resolved. There will be changes in our education curriculum to prepare youths for employment and create entrepreneurial opportunity. There will be public, private partnership to make this happen.
My proposal to vigorously invest in agriculture will decrease poverty, increase locally grown foods at affordable prices, create related jobs in transportation, supplies, packaging and micro-finance.
Why do you think you are the best man for the job?
Every citizen in Ekiti State expects a governor to champion his or her cause and I want to be that person. I am excited for the opportunity to serve. Although this is my first run for elected office, I offer extensive experience in government at city, state and federal levels. These include Workforce Development Coordinator; Legislative Aide in the State of Maryland General Assembly; Legislative Political Coordinator.
My role as coach/mentor and Geriatric healthcare provider challenged me to provide opportunities for the youths and a quality life for seniors. I want to bring this wealth of knowledge and years of experience to my great state, Ekiti, the “fountain of knowledge.”
If I am elected, the citizens can count on my honesty to provide full disclosure and ensure seamless access to all state services. I will ensure transparency in all public spendings and be very vigorous in steming wasteful expenditures.
These are challenging times and Ekiti State deserves and requires someone who is committed and understands how an efficient government works.
