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Oyo State Governor, Sen. Abiola Ajimobi and one of his predecessors, Sen. Rashidi Ladoja, on Tuesday squared it up in a debate during which they exchanged hot arguments over the N500 million allegedly refunded by Ladoja and his men and alleged inflation of the cost of Mokola flyover.
They argued over the issues at the debate organized by a private radio station, Splash FM 105.5, Ibadan. The debate was held for governorship candidates of four major political parties at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan. Others at the debate are Engr Seyi Makinde of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and Sen. Teslim Folarin of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
While Ajimobi is flying the flag of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the February 28 election, Ladoja is contesting under the platform of Accord. Only Adebayo Alao-Akala of Labour Party (LP) was absent at the debate.
While Ajimobi insisted that Ladoja and his team mates refunded the N500 million, Ladoja insisted that the cost of Mokola flyover was inflated. They both denied the allegation and offered explanations.
On the N500 million refund, Ajimobi said he wanted to be challenged in court.
The four debaters laid bare their plans for the state if elected. They spoke specifically on education, health, infrastructure, youth empowerment, security and industrialization among others.
Ajimobi said he would sustain the peace, security, social and infrastructural development he started if given another opportunity. He disclosed that not less than eight big factories have established in the state in the last three and a half years due to the enabling environment his administration is creating. He also disclosed that his administration has improved water supply, provided employment and developed agriculture. He pledged to do more if re-elected.
Ladoja also pledged to improve education and agriculture, stressing that he is a leader the masses want to follow.
Makinde spoke of his plan to banish poverty by creating employment for youths and also tackle corruption.
In his own contribution, Folarin promised to restore the state back to the track of prosperity.
A good one