The Ogun West Initiative, a socio-political group in Ogun State, Nigeria, has reignited its campaign for the governorship seat to be zoned to the Ogun West Senatorial District in the upcoming 2027 elections. This call stems from a deep-seated belief that the region’s lack of political power at the gubernatorial level has directly contributed to its underdevelopment compared to the other two senatorial districts, Ogun East and Ogun Central. The group argues that while past governors may have demonstrated good intentions in distributing resources equitably, the tangible evidence on the ground suggests a different reality, one marked by a significant developmental gap between Ogun West and the other districts. This disparity, they contend, can only be effectively addressed by having someone from Ogun West at the helm of affairs.
The Ogun West Initiative’s core argument revolves around the inherent connection between political power and development. They posit that regions where political power resides naturally attract more development initiatives and resources. Citing the comparative advancements in Ogun East and Ogun Central, which have both produced governors, the group asserts that these regions have benefited significantly from having individuals in the highest office who are intimately familiar with their specific needs and challenges. This, they maintain, is not a critique of the intentions of past or current governors but rather an observation of the practical realities on the ground. While acknowledging the efforts of previous administrations to foster development across the state, the group firmly believes that having a governor from Ogun West would guarantee a more focused and effective approach to the region’s unique developmental needs.
A key example cited by the group to illustrate their point is the declining state of the Ota-Agbara industrial cluster, located within Ogun West. This industrial hub, once a significant contributor to the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), is now facing challenges due to deteriorating infrastructure and a perceived lack of sustained governmental focus. The Ogun West Initiative argues that if the necessary attention and resources had been allocated to this vital economic zone, it would have not only maintained its viability but also fostered the growth of further industrial clusters, thereby boosting the state’s overall economic performance. This situation, they suggest, underscores the need for a governor from Ogun West who would prioritize the revitalization of this crucial industrial area and spearhead further economic development within the senatorial district.
The group emphasizes that their advocacy for an Ogun West governor is not based on entitlement, pity, or mere concession, as might have been perceived in previous agitations. This time, their claim is rooted in a renewed focus on meritocracy and democratic fervour emanating from the district. They believe that Ogun West has matured politically and has now overcome the internal divisions that hindered previous attempts to secure the governorship. The current atmosphere within the district is characterized by a convergence of opinions and strategic actions aimed at presenting a united front for the 2027 elections. This unity, they believe, strengthens their position and makes a compelling case for an Ogun West candidate.
Looking ahead to the 2027 electoral cycle, the Ogun West Initiative is calling for a paradigm shift in the state’s political landscape. After 49 years since the state’s creation, they believe it is time for Ogun West to produce a governor. This, they argue, is not just about political representation but about ensuring equitable development across all three senatorial districts. The group is confident that a governor from Ogun West would not only address the specific needs of the region but also contribute to the overall progress and prosperity of the entire state.
The Ogun West Initiative extends an invitation to stakeholders across the state, particularly those in Ogun East and Ogun Central, to join forces with them in this pursuit. They are appealing for a collective effort to break the historical pattern and elect a governor from Ogun West in 2027. Their message is one of inclusivity and collaboration, emphasizing the shared benefits that would accrue to the entire state by supporting an Ogun West candidate. This, they believe, is a crucial step towards ensuring balanced development and fostering a greater sense of unity and shared prosperity across all three senatorial districts of Ogun State.
