Hon. Dauda Raheem, former leader of Egbeda Local Government Legislative Arm, has officially declared his intention to contest for the Egbeda/Ona-Ara Federal Constituency seat in the 2027 elections.
He made the declaration at a carnival-like event held on Friday in Ibadan, Egbeda Local Government area of Oyo State.
Raheem hinged his ambition on his legislative experience, recalling how his tenure brought dividends of democracy to Egbeda residents.
He acknowledged the efforts of the current representative but promised to surpass them with impactful projects.
Raheem said his leadership secured jobs for 120 people, while each councillor under him facilitated employment for three persons in their respective wards, benefiting many households across the local government.
“If elected in 2027, I will bring dividends of democracy to the grassroots, ensuring benefits for men, women, and youths through empowerment, job creation, and sustainable development,” Raheem pledged.
He promised to introduce soft loans for women in small-scale businesses, secure jobs for youths, and ensure equitable resource allocation between Egbeda and Ona-Ara Local Governments for balanced development.
Raheem vowed to work toward creating separate federal constituencies for the two local governments, stressing his commitment to fair representation and addressing peculiar developmental needs in each area.
In his remarks, Hon. Sodiq Akintunde, former Egbeda Local Government Chairman, lauded Raheem’s entry into the race, describing him as an experienced and capable politician needed for progressive representation.
Akintunde recalled Raheem’s outstanding performance during his tenure as legislative leader, commending his focus and resilience during a politically challenging period, which ensured the council’s legislative arm delivered results.
He noted Raheem’s establishment of an ICT Centre, job facilitation for youths, and continued contributions to community development, describing him as reliable, credible and dependable for national representation.
Expressing optimism, Akintunde said the constituency was returning to “the good old ways” of politics and governance, adding that electing Raheem would guarantee better days for the people, especially women.
The event was attended by notable politicians, political associates, women groups, youths and other well wishers.
