Two-term former member of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Bowale Solaja, has reaffirmed his readiness to represent Ijebu North 1, presenting a compelling mix of experience, performance, and equity-based arguments during a recent debate.
Speaking confidently, Solaja traced his roots to Atikori, identifying himself as a descendant of the Ejioloko baba Dotun (Dot Sho) family with links to the Ojowo dynasty. He also highlighted his lineage as a grandson of the late Babalanre Onikoko and acknowledged his mother, Mrs. Ibi Solaja, widely known as “Dangote Obinrin,” as a respected community figure.
An alumnus of Olabisi Onabanjo University, where he studied Banking and Finance, Solaja described himself as both a politician and entrepreneur, with interests in poultry farming and paper trading.
Addressing his motivation to return to the Assembly, he pointed to the geopolitical arrangement of Ijebu Igbo, which comprises six wards split into Area 1 and Area 2. According to him, fairness dictates that Area 1 should now produce the House of Assembly representative, noting that Area 2 already holds both the chairmanship position and the current legislative seat.
Solaja underscored the importance of legislative experience, positioning himself as the most qualified candidate in the race. He argued that his return would secure him ranking status in the Assembly—an advantage he said would translate into greater influence, improved security, job opportunities, and impactful constituency projects.
To support his claim, he referenced the achievements of Senator Olamilekan Yayi, whose ranking position in the Senate has enabled him to attract development projects beyond his immediate constituency.
When challenged to account for his performance during his previous terms, Solaja responded with a detailed list of projects. These included the construction of two eight-unit classroom blocks at Kegbo Secondary School and Shasusudeen in Atikori, the development of lockup shops in Imope and Obada, installation of boreholes—including one at Obada Market—and road clearing in Bogije. He added that a total of 16 boreholes were sunk across the constituency under his watch.
On social welfare, he cited empowerment programmes targeting women, with distribution of equipment such as freezers, grinding machines, and hairdryers. He also referenced a monthly financial support scheme for widows.
Solaja acknowledged that his previous tenure in opposition limited his access to resources but expressed optimism about improved performance if elected again, noting that he is now aligned with a stronger political platform.
He concluded with a pledge to prioritise inclusivity, promising targeted support for persons living with disabilities, whom he described as deserving of dignity and equal opportunity.
In a show of sportsmanship, Solaja also commended fellow aspirants, including Dr. Adeeko Fiyinfoluwa and Hon. Niyi Ogunyemi, for their contributions and vision.
The debate ended with a group photograph of all participants, marking a significant moment in the buildup to the انتخابات in Ijebu North 1.
