2026: Osun group knocks Adeleke over jobs, backs Oyebamiji

The Osun Central Elite Caucus has criticised the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke, accusing it of failing to create sustainable employment opportunities for youths nearly four years after assuming office.

In a statement signed by its leader, Professor Hussein Ajirotutu, the group said the much-publicised infrastructure projects of the Adeleke administration have not translated into meaningful economic benefits for residents of the state.

According to the caucus, despite increased federal allocations and frequent project flag-offs, unemployment remains high while living standards have shown no measurable improvement.

“Governance is not about optics or ceremonies; it is about impact,” the statement said, adding that the administration has failed to articulate or implement any clear, structured job-creation policy capable of empowering youths, professionals or artisans.

The group further accused the government of reckless spending under the guise of infrastructure development, alleging that several projects lack transparency, economic justification and long-term value.

Professor Ajirotutu described infrastructure development without productivity as “meaningless,” arguing that roads not linked to industrial growth and budgets that do not generate employment amount to fiscal waste.

He lamented that small and medium-scale enterprises across Osun State continue to struggle due to poor access to credit, weak economic policies and an unfriendly business environment, while thousands of youths remain unemployed.

Against this backdrop, the caucus endorsed Hon. Bola Oyebamiji as what it described as a more credible and economically grounded alternative for the state.

“We believe Bola Oyebamiji has the competence, discipline and economic understanding to create real jobs, attract meaningful investments and drive projects that are not just visible but impactful,” the statement said.

Highlighting Oyebamiji’s record in public service, the group described him as a leader with a strong grasp of fiscal responsibility, human capital development and sustainable growth.

“Osun State does not need noise; it needs knowledge. It does not need reckless spending; it needs responsible leadership,” Ajirotutu added.

The Osun Central Elite Caucus called on professionals, youths, traditional rulers and civil society groups to critically assess the performance of the Adeleke administration and reject what it described as “four years of missed opportunities.”

The group reaffirmed its commitment to promoting accountable, development-driven leadership focused on job creation, economic stability and the long-term prosperity of Osun State.