Why Adeleke’s Spokesman Owes Osun People Courtesy, Not Contempt - Oluwatosin Babatunde

 

When government propaganda begins to insult the intelligence of the people, then it becomes necessary to respond without fear or apology. The recent press statement issued by Governor Adeleke’s spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, on the Iwo–Osogbo road project is one of such moments.

For months, commuters and residents of Iwo and Osogbo have cried out about the terrible state of this vital road. Cars have broken down, journeys have become nightmares, and economic activities have suffered. Elders have raised their voices, commuters have lamented repeatedly, and the public frustration was too glaring to ignore. Yet, this administration chose silence.

Now, after months of pressure, Mallam Rasheed wants us to believe that the Governor approved the road “since January 2025” and that everything is happening smoothly as planned. Really? If approval came in January, why did nothing move until late August? Why did it take growing complaints and public outrage before contractors were “mobilized to site”? Why were letters of award only conveniently delivered this week? The timeline exposes the lie: the government only acted because the people demanded it.

Even more laughable is the claim that “Mr. Governor does not need agitators or protests to do the right thing.” If that were true, why has Iwoland been left in neglect for so long? Why do we always see hurried inspections and flashy announcements only after public criticism? True leadership is proactive, not reactive. True love for a people is shown in action, not flowery press statements.

The so-called inspection by Dr. B.T. Salami is nothing but a photo opportunity to cover up months of inaction. People do not need pictures of commissioners standing on bad roads they need the roads fixed. They do not need promises wrapped in propaganda they need results.

And let me acknowledge one rare voice of courage: Hon. Nurudeen Emiloju. Despite being an appointee of this same government, he dared to confront the powers that be and speak the truth about the deplorable state of our roads. His subsequent removal from official platforms proves a painful reality this administration prefers silencing dissent to listening to honest voices. If even insiders are punished for telling the truth, what right does the government have to lecture ordinary citizens about “ignoring agitators”?

Iwo people are not fooled by sweet talk about “love” or “commitments to Kabiyesi.” They want roads that work. And the truth remains: without agitation, this project would still be gathering dust.

Mallam Rasheed must be reminded that his job is not to rewrite history or spread propaganda, but to communicate the truth. The bitter reality is this: Governor Adeleke acted late, and he acted under pressure. No amount of spin can erase that fact.

Osun people are watching. History is recording. And no matter how many statements you release, sir, the people will remember who spoke the truth and who tried to bury it.