By Oladipupo Sefiu (B-urself)
When Akogun Olalere Oyewumi, PhD, was inaugurated along with his colleagues as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on June 13, the expression on his face represented the mood of the entire people of Osun West Senatorial District that he ably represents. It was as much an expression of joy as it was of a fuller understanding of the noble task that lay ahead.
His emergence on June 26 as Deputy Minority Leader of the Senate doubled the onerous task of lawmaking and national assignment. It also attested to the confidence of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in its ability to function effectively in the interest of the people as well as the party. In all of this, he made it known that he remained committed to providing quality representation to the people of Osun West on whose mandate he is in the Senate.
Over the last 100 days, Senator Oyewumi has carried out numerous strategic multi-sectoral engagements and partnerships at different levels to create and strengthen ties capable of helping him deliver on his electoral promises and involve everyone at every level of development.
This article pieces together some of his broad engagements. More importantly, this piece underscores his fidelity to his consistent promise of keeping his constituents informed of his activities while working to attract physical and soft developments to Osun West.
The unfortunate flooding that sacked residents from their homes in Ikire, Apomu, and Gbongan communities and prevented travelers from reaching their destinations in July was a great concern to all. In terms of a legislative initiative, he has since moved a motion in the Senate for consideration as a matter of national importance that requires a lasting solution.
During his inspection, it was identified that the tributaries in the affected area were narrow and needed immediate expansion. The motion was in addition to the intervention of Governor Ademola Adeleke to dredge the water channels as we anticipate more rainfall predicted by the Nigerian Meteorology Agency (NiMET).
In July, the distinguished senator was in Iwo, Osun West headquarters, to flag off the construction of two neighborhood roads at Oriolowo/Agbele and Fojugbagi/Adediti areas of the town, financed by the 2023 appropriation bill of the federal government. Relatedly, he recently visited Ikire to monitor the progress of the 1.8km Sanngo/Moro/Ayedaade Road in Ikire. While at the two communities, Senator Oyewumi spoke about the importance of quality road networks and stressed to the contractors the need for timely delivery of the projects.
To reduce water challenges at Onibepe Village, the Deputy Minority Leader has donated a new generator to power a borehole, a major source of drinkable water in the settlement. Before the donation, the villagers had been experiencing difficulty accessing water for their household uses.
He has also turned his attention to lighting up some streets in Ikire. The solar-powered street lights were provided to serve dual purposes of security and nightlife benefits. For sustainability, the Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance urged the community to take ownership of the amenity.
Another important initiative of Senator Oyewumi was the launching of a special website to serve as a platform to communicate with his constituents and the world at large. In an article to that effect, the senator stated that the platform was important "for the assessment and appraisal of his efforts in the upper chamber of the national assembly by the public."
To foster cooperation and understand the legislative support he could provide, the senator has visited federal institutions within the senatorial district and pledged his readiness to use his office to promote their interests. The institutions visited included the Federal College of Education, Iwo; Federal Polytechnic, Ede; and the University of Osun State.
It is indeed a progress-packed 100 days. Considering these milestones and the encouraging feedback from the people, the senator is more energized to continue facilitating projects to enhance the socio-economic and harmonious living of the entire Osun West Senatorial District.
Oladipupo Sefiu (B-urself)
Writes from Iwo, Osun West Senatorial Headquarters.