Osun Rich in Resources but Held Back by Poor Leadership, Says Senator Fadahunsi
ABUJA — Senator Francis Adenigba Fadahunsi, who represents Osun East Senatorial District in the 10th Senate, has said Osun State possesses enormous natural and human resources but has failed to realize its full potential because of poor leadership.
Speaking with journalists in Abuja on Tuesday during the inauguration of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Campaign Council Committee and Sub-Committee for the Osun governorship election, Fadahunsi urged residents of the state to participate actively in the forthcoming poll by voting for what he described as the right candidate.
According to the senator, Osun is among the richest states in Nigeria in terms of mineral deposits, agriculture and human capital, yet it continues to struggle with underdevelopment.
“Osun is a very rich state, one of the richest in Nigeria in terms of its natural resources and human potential, but unfortunately, the state remains poor,” he said.
Fadahunsi lamented the state’s infrastructural challenges, noting that Osun still lacks key facilities, including an airport, despite its abundant economic potential. He argued that successive governments had failed to harness the state’s resources effectively for the benefit of its people.
He also criticized what he described as the treatment of government as a “family business,” insisting that Osun needs leadership that will prioritize development, accountability and responsible governance.
The lawmaker identified agriculture and solid minerals as sectors capable of transforming the state’s economy if properly managed. He stressed the need for investment in mechanized farming, rural roads, water supply and other infrastructure to improve agricultural productivity.
Fadahunsi further expressed concern over the impact of illegal mining on the environment, saying the activity has polluted rivers, destroyed farmlands and denied the people the benefits of the state’s mineral wealth.
“If you go to Osun today, you will see the devastating effects of illegal mining. Our rivers are being polluted and our farmlands degraded,” he said, calling for stronger measures to protect the environment and ensure that mineral resources contribute to economic development.
On leadership, the senator said Osun requires a governor with a clear understanding of governance and economic management rather than one focused on political theatrics.
“We need a leader who knows what he is doing; a leader who understands governance and will not turn government into a performance or entertainment,” he stated.
Addressing concerns over insecurity and allegations of political violence, Fadahunsi maintained that security should not be politicized. He urged authorities to investigate all allegations of criminality without fear or favor, adding that constitutional immunity should not be used to shield anyone from accountability.
Looking ahead to the governorship election, the senator expressed confidence that the APC would make significant gains, while urging voters to remain informed about the responsibilities of government at all levels.
He encouraged residents to scrutinize candidates based on their plans for infrastructure, agriculture, mineral development and public service delivery rather than political rhetoric.
“My message is simple: come out and vote. Do not sit at home. Vote for the candidate you believe can bring development and responsible leadership to Osun,” Fadahunsi said.
He added that Osun has the resources, people and potential to thrive, stressing that what the state needs most is visionary leadership capable of unlocking its economic opportunities and improving the lives of its citizens.
