Gov. Adeleke seeks unity as Egbedun emerges Speaker

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has called for a harmonious working relationship with the legislative arm of government in the state’s interest.

Adeleke spoke in Osogbo, the state capital, on Tuesday, at the proclamation of the 8th Assembly, where 38-year-old Adewale Egbedun representing Odo-Otin State Constituency emerged as the Speaker of the Parliament.

The governor described the lawmakers as critical stakeholders, coming in at a time when their backup was most needed, and expressed hope that with cooperation, the realisation of the five-point agenda of his administration would be easier.

He said, “That goal is only achievable with a supportive Assembly. The exercise of your power for the people and public good is my solicitation.

“This 8th Assembly has a golden opportunity to be a strong partner with us in building a new Osun State. We share common views and visions on how to make Osun great. We are mostly products of the same movement. Our movement is focused on defeating poverty, expanding development, building prosperity, and growing the Osun economy.

“You will find in the executive arm a cooperative partner. We must both unite to ensure a harmonious relationship to guarantee a greater Osun State.”

Speaking shortly after he was elected Speaker, Egbedun commended his colleagues for supporting him to lead the 8th Assembly and enjoined other contestants to join hands with him in leading the parliament.

He assured the only opposition member of the House, Femi Popoola, elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, that all due privileges would be given to him.

Egbedun, who observed that the new Assembly was coming into existence under a governor who was once a legislator, noted that the state was set for an era of partnership among arms of government, which would lead to transformation.