The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State, Oladipupo on, has rejected claims questioning his competence to govern the state, i l politics has adequately prepared him for leadership.
Adebutu also dismissed suggestions that his achievements are solely linked to the influence of his father, billionaire businessman Kensington Adebutu, arguing that he has independently built enterprises, created jobs and contributed to economic development through investments in agriculture and agro-processing.
Speaking at a media parley journalists in Abeokuta on Monday, the PDP chieftain said he had been actively involved in humanitarian interventions and community development since entering politics in 1992.
The event was attended by the state PDP chairman, Abayomi Tella; the party’s deputy governorship candidate, Yemi Sowunmi-Kolapo; former senator Iyabo Obasanjo; and other party stakeholders.
Responding to criticisms of his background, Adebutu said being born into a privileged family should not be seen as a disadvantage, stressing that what matters is how individuals utilise the opportunities available to them.
“Unfortunately, many narratives have been created about me and my intentions. Some critics suggest that I merely live on my family’s achievements or that I have built nothing of my own.
“To them, I say this: none of us chooses the family into which we are born. If someone is fortunate enough to come from a successful family, should that be a source of shame? Certainly not.
“What matters is what we do with the opportunities we are given. I have used my resources to build businesses, create jobs and contribute to economic development,” he said.
Adebutu described himself as one of the country’s leading practitioners of animal husbandry, noting that his investments in livestock farming and meat processing have created jobs and boosted food production.
He recalled distributing livestock to vulnerable Nigerians during the COVID-19 pandemic as part of efforts to cushion the economic impact of the crisis.
Outlining his governance vision, the PDP candidate said insecurity remains Nigeria’s most pressing challenge and pledged to prioritise the protection of lives and property if elected governor in 2027.
“The foremost challenge facing Nigeria today is insecurity. That is why security occupies the first position on our agenda. We cannot build a prosperous society without ensuring the safety of lives and property,” he said.
He added that he has supported security agencies through logistics such as fuel supply and vehicle maintenance, while calling for stronger security infrastructure in Ogun State.
Adebutu also advocated greater autonomy for local governments, arguing that grassroots development has been weakened by excessive control from state authorities.
“The decline began when local government elections became heavily controlled at the state level. As local governments lost their independence and accountability to the people, their effectiveness diminished,” he said.
He stressed that sustainable development would remain difficult unless local councils are empowered to operate independently and transparently.
The PDP candidate further outlined plans to prioritise rural infrastructure, healthcare, education, electricity and agriculture, describing agriculture as a key driver of employment and economic growth in the state.
He also called for education reforms with greater emphasis on vocational training, entrepreneurship and digital skills acquisition, arguing that many graduates remain unemployed due to a mismatch between academic training and labour market needs.
