The Okanlomo Oodua and Bada Olubadan, Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi has expressed deep concern over the state of affairs in Oyo State, lamenting what he described as growing hardship, insecurity, and uncertainty facing residents across the state.
In a statement made available to journalists on Thursday and titled “My Heart Bleeds for Oyo State,” the elder statesman said he was speaking not as a politician or partisan figure, but as a concerned son of the state whose heart is burdened by the challenges confronting the people.
He noted that Oyo State has historically been known for honour, courage, intellectual excellence, and progress, having produced generations of leaders, scholars, and patriots who laid a solid foundation for development and prosperity.
According to him, the current realities facing many residents paint a troubling picture, with families living in fear, farmers becoming increasingly reluctant to visit their farms, business owners struggling to stay afloat, and parents expressing concerns over the safety and future of their children.
“Oyo State has always been a land of honour, courage, intellect and progress. But today, many of our people live in fear. Families go to bed uncertain of what tomorrow may bring. Farmers are afraid to go to their farms, business owners are struggling, and parents worry about the safety and future of their children,” he said.
The Chairman Ilaji Resort stressed that at a time when citizens are grappling with numerous challenges, government policies and actions should be guided by the welfare of the people, insisting that the pains and concerns of residents must become the priority of those in leadership.
He also called for greater transparency and accountability in the management of public finances, particularly amid ongoing discussions surrounding government borrowing and expenditure.
“The people deserve openness and honesty. They deserve to know why decisions are being made, how resources are being spent, and what future is being prepared for their children and grandchildren,” he stated.
While maintaining that his intervention was not politically motivated, he warned that decisions taken today on issues such as public debt, security, and economic opportunities would have long-term implications for future generations.
He urged political leaders across party lines to place the interests of the people above partisan considerations, advocating dialogue, responsible governance, and practical solutions to the challenges confronting the state.
“I call on all leaders, regardless of political affiliation, to put the interests of the people first. Let us reduce the noise of politics and listen to the heartbeat of the people. Let us replace division with dialogue, excuses with action, and promises with results,” he said.
The respected traditional chief also appealed to residents not to lose hope, encouraging them to continue to demand accountability peacefully while working collectively towards a more prosperous and secure Oyo State.
Sanusi concluded with prayers for peace, progress, and renewed prosperity in the state, expressing hope that history would remember the present generation as one that stood up to protect the future of Oyo State.
