Osun Will Not Return To Outdated Economic Practices – Adeleke Dismisses APC Candidate Oyebamiji’s Policy Agenda

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Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has rejected the economic proposals recently unveiled by All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate Muniru Bola Oyebamiji, describing the policy framework as outdated and incompatible with the state’s present economic realities. The governor argued that the suggested agenda risks reversing progress achieved under his administration.

Reacting through an official statement issued in Osogbo, Adeleke said a detailed review of the opposition’s blueprint revealed ideas he believes belong to an earlier economic era. According to him, the proposals contradict claims of progressiveness and instead promote policies that could weaken local economic independence.

Rather than viewing the document as a fresh vision, the governor alleged that the plan attempts to revive strategies previously associated with excessive taxation and outward economic dependence. He warned that such an approach could encourage capital movement away from Osun while placing renewed financial pressure on residents and small businesses.

Competing Economic Visions

Adeleke contrasted his administration’s model with what he described as the opposition’s “retrogressive” direction. He maintained that the current government’s philosophy centres on strengthening internal productivity and expanding opportunities at the grassroots level.

Key priorities highlighted by the governor include:

empowering artisans and cooperative societies through targeted financing,
simplifying business regulations to attract investors,
widening the tax base while lowering individual tax burdens,
accelerating infrastructure projects to stimulate economic activity,
promoting agro-industrial expansion and mining-sector reforms.

He emphasised that these initiatives are designed to create inclusive growth driven by local participation rather than reliance on external economic hubs.

The governor disclosed that billions of naira have already been channelled into grassroots empowerment schemes, while enforcement of local content policies has increased opportunities for indigenous businesses in government contracts and employment.

Digital Economy And Revenue Reforms

Addressing specific claims contained in the APC candidate’s proposals, Adeleke insisted that several suggested reforms are already underway. He pointed to the enactment of the Osun State Electricity Law as evidence of ongoing efforts to decentralise power generation and improve energy supply within the state.

He further noted that investments in technology and innovation have positioned Osun as an emerging digital economy destination, supported by ICT legislation and the revitalisation of the Osun Digital Economy Hub.

On fiscal matters, the administration credits tax harmonisation and digitisation initiatives for boosting internally generated revenue while simultaneously reducing the state’s debt exposure through stricter financial management.

Debate Over Regional Economic Strategy

One of Adeleke’s strongest criticisms targeted the proposed “Lagos corridor” economic concept, which he argued could undermine Osun’s self-reliance by encouraging capital flight. While acknowledging regional cooperation among South-West states, the governor cautioned that excessive dependence on Lagos would weaken local enterprise development and disrupt long-term industrial planning.

He maintained that Osun’s future lies in building sustainable agro-industrial and digital sectors rooted within the state rather than anchoring growth externally.

Commentary & Analysis

The exchange between Adeleke and the APC candidate reflects a broader ideological contest common in Nigerian state politics — the balance between regional integration and economic self-sufficiency. While opposition parties often propose restructuring development priorities, incumbent administrations tend to defend continuity and existing reforms.

Adeleke’s response underscores how economic policy has become a central battleground ahead of future electoral contests in Osun. By framing the debate around local empowerment versus external dependence, both camps are appealing to competing visions of development.

Ultimately, voters may judge not only policy promises but also measurable outcomes such as job creation, infrastructure delivery and business growth. The ongoing policy clash signals that economic direction will remain a defining issue in Osun’s political discourse moving forward.