ADC gov candidate rejects defection rumours, vows to win Osun poll

The candidate of the African Democratic Congress in the August 15 Osun State governorship poll, Najeem Salaam. Photo: Bola Bamigbola

The African Democratic Congress candidate in the forthcoming governorship poll in Osun State, Najeem Salaam, has dismissed insinuations that he may dump his ambition and work for another candidate. Salaam, who declared that he was in the governorship race with the sole aim of winning, made the disclosure in Osogbo on Monday at the unveiling of his manifesto christened ‘My 10-point Development Agenda.’ The ex-Osun Assembly Speaker, who said he chose not to engage in name-calling or the blame game, stressed that he would rather focus on engaging with various segments of society on his plans for the state. He further said administrations that have been at the helm of affairs of the state had recorded various achievements, while in power, adding that he has the pedigree and experience to surpass previous governors and raise the bar of governance in the state. “I am in the race to win. I am well-educated, having read up to the doctoral level. I have reviewed the various achievements of the state’s administrations and identified gaps. I am working to fill those gaps. “My team worked so hard to put this document together. For instance, while working on my action plan, I discovered a school in my local government area, Ejigbo, with about 500 students and 6 teachers. I won’t criticize anyone, but I will look at the gaps in governance and fill them,” Salaam said. Highlighting some of his plans for the state if elected, Salaam listed workers’ welfare and accountable leadership, security and territorial protection, agriculture, education, infrastructure and power, investments facilitation and SME empowerment, among others, as key sectors that will receive government attention. Related News 2027: NDP unveils female presidential candidate, vows electoral victory Osun will empower more youth entrepreneurs, says Adeleke Osun ADC gov candidate promises 24-hour power to drive growth He further said, “The time has come to rise together and build a future of greatness, opportunity, peace, and prosperity. Our state stands at a critical juncture; the decisions we make today will determine the kind of Osun we leave behind for our children and generations yet unborn. We can choose the path of stagnation or embrace the path of transformation. I believe the people of Osun are ready for transformation. “Today, I present myself before you with a clear vision and an unwavering commitment to building an Osun State that works for all. A state where work