Kalejaye Calls For Issue-Based Campaigns Ahead Ogun LG Elections

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and renowned legal luminary, Asiwaju Kunle Kalejaye, has urged all candidates vying for positions in the forthcoming Ogun state local government elections to focus on issue-based campaigns, rather than political mudslinging.

In a statement issued on Friday, and made available to Saturday Telegraph in Ibadan, Oyo State capital, the Asiwaju of Ilese Ijebu, who is also Chairman of the award-winning radio station, Eagle102.5 FM Ilese-Ijebu, Ogun State, congratulated the candidates on their emergence, acknowledging the arduous process they went through to secure their party’s nomination. He, however, reminded them that this is only the first step in the race toward serving the people.

Kalejaye emphasized that the era of superficial campaigning, where candidates sought votes based on theatrics or mere popularity, is coming to an end. “Campaigning for office is no longer about who can dance the most. It is fast becoming issue-based. Candidates must engage the people on what they will do to make life more meaningful,” he stated.

The SAN highlighted the importance of discussing policies that will benefit the community and addressing the concerns of the electorate in a meaningful way.

Referencing the recent Supreme Court ruling on local government autonomy, Kalejaye pointed out that the public’s expectations are higher than ever. The ruling, he noted, has spurred a renewed hope for a functional and rejuvenated local government system that can directly address the needs of the people.

According to him, “The hype surrounding the judgment shows that our people are expecting a rejuvenated local government system that will deliver for them”. He urged candidates to meet this expectation by articulating clear and actionable plans.

Kalejaye also made a fervent appeal for peaceful conduct during the election season, stating that Ogun state is known for its peaceful political processes. He implored the candidates to avoid introducing any form of violence or disorder into the political landscape, stating, “Let no one teach our people violent politics.”

While praising candidates who have already extended congratulatory messages to their opponents, Kalejaye stressed that politics should foster healthy competition rather than enmity. As the election approached, he called on voters to be vigilant and active participants in the democratic process.

He nevertheless debunked the myth that Local Government election results are often written by the ruling party, stating that voter apathy is the main reason for such perceptions.

“The law allows us to protect our votes. This we must all do. I am calling on citizens to turn out en masse to vote and dispel any doubts about the legitimacy of the electoral process”, he said, while congratulating all candidates and expressing hope for a free, fair, and transparent election.

“He wished for the victory of the candidates best suited to advance each of the twenty local government areas in the state, reminding everyone that political opponents are not enemies but participants in a shared democratic journey.