A former Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, Adeolu Akande, has declared his ambition to represent Oyo North Senatorial District, outlining a broad development agenda while strongly backing the agitation for power rotation in Oyo State.
Speaking in an interview, the political scientist and former presidential aide described public service as a lifelong commitment to improving citizens’ welfare through governance, stressing that his background in academia, law, and journalism has prepared him for legislative responsibilities.
Akande said his decision to pursue elective office now reflects his readiness to engage fully in partisan politics, noting that his earlier career in academia limited such participation.
On the longstanding agitation for zoning the governorship away from Ibadan, he expressed firm support, warning that continued dominance by one region could undermine unity and stability in the state.
“You cannot have peace where a significant number of people feel marginalised. Power must rotate to ensure fairness and inclusion,” he said.
Despite advocating for an Oke-Ogun governor, Akande acknowledged the political realities that favour Ibadan due to its voting strength, describing the situation as a “vicious cycle” that has hindered power shift over the years.
Turning to his senatorial ambition, he said his focus would be on unlocking the economic potential of Oyo North, particularly in agriculture, youth employment, and solid minerals development.
He lamented rising unemployment among graduates in the region, noting that many degree holders have resorted to commercial motorcycle operations due to lack of opportunities.
According to him, agriculture remains the backbone of the zone’s economy but suffers from poor federal presence and lack of modernisation.
“We must integrate Oyo North’s agricultural output into the massive Lagos market and attract federal interventions to support mechanised farming and irrigation,” he said.
Akande also raised concerns over illegal mining activities across the region, linking them to insecurity and environmental degradation. He called for proper regulation to ensure accountability, community development, and wealth creation.
“Unregulated mining fuels violence and poverty. Once it is properly structured, it can generate jobs, protect the environment, and develop host communities,” he explained.
He further highlighted the proposed Okerete International Border Market as a major opportunity for economic transformation, projecting that the project could create up to one million jobs if fully realised.
On national politics, Akande dismissed claims that the crisis within the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is orchestrated by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), arguing that internal instability within parties is often a result of weak ideological foundations.
“It is not the duty of APC to stabilise PDP. Political parties must manage their internal affairs within the law,” he said.
He expressed confidence that the APC could reclaim Oyo State in 2027 if it maintains unity, noting that internal divisions cost the party previous elections.
Akande also rejected suggestions that governance slows down during election seasons, stating that political activities and governance can run concurrently.
On his chances, he described his Senate ambition as “a work in progress,” emphasizing the need to secure party support and win the confidence of the electorate.
“I have a clear vision and the experience to attract meaningful development to Oyo North. The Senate is not a place for spectators—it requires knowledge, network, and hard work,” he added.