By Bilesanmi Abayomi
As the All Progressives Congress (APC) prepares for its forthcoming primary election in Ikosi-Isheri LCDA, chairmanship aspirant Mr. Adetunji, popularly known as Dudu, has pledged to run an open-door administration, prioritise youth empowerment, and foster sports and entertainment development if elected.
Speaking in an exclusive interview after the APC screening exercise at the party secretariat in Lagos on Wednesday, Adetunji vowed to operate a transparent and accountable administration rooted in his two decades of experience in multinational firms.
“I will ensure transparency by putting clear processes in place to monitor governance. Corruption thrives when systems are weak. But if we publish our activities quarterly—revenues, expenditures—then people will see that we have nothing to hide,” he said.
He emphasised that his administration would adopt policies that uphold openness and discourage misuse of public funds, stressing that those working with him must adhere strictly to these principles.
On youth engagement, Adetunji noted that young people would be central to his administration’s agenda. “They are energetic, innovative, and critical to driving development. We will use their talents to power our initiatives,” he said.
He also unveiled plans to introduce small-scale business support schemes, especially targeting market women and the unemployed. “We’ll set up schemes through market associations to empower our people, particularly women, and help them discover and develop their talents,” he added.
Highlighting the untapped potential in local sports and entertainment, Adetunji said his administration would collaborate with private partners to develop young talents. “We have boxers, musicians, and artists wasting away because the local government has not provided an enabling environment. With the right support, we can turn street fighters into Olympic medalists and promote our entertainers to global platforms.”
When asked what sets him apart from other aspirants, Adetunji described himself as a grassroots politician who has remained embedded in the community despite his personal successes.
“I’ve never left my people. I live among them, and even with the little I have, I support them. Just today, over 5,000 people turned up at a community meeting because they believe in my capacity to lead,” he said.
He also emphasised his independence and passion for service. “I’m not coming into politics to survive—I’m already established. Many others are in this race just to earn a living. For me, it’s about giving back and improving lives.”
Adetunji, who has held leadership roles in labour unions such as NUPENG and PENGASSAN, described himself as a human rights advocate with a reputation for promoting good governance.
“My record speaks for itself. I’ve always stood for integrity, and I want to use this platform to deliver the change I’ve been advocating for,” he said.
Concluding, the chairmanship hopeful called on fellow politicians to prioritize community development over personal gain. “If everyone helps just one person, and that person helps another, our society will become a better place. We must change for good—for our communities, our state, and our country.”
The APC chairmanship primary election for Ikosi-Isheri LCDA is scheduled for May 10, 2025.