24/07/2024
"Local Government Chairman Engr. Sheriff Musa Faces Community in Landmark Ado-Odo/Ota Townhall Meeting"
ADO-ODO/OTA LOCAL GOVERNMENT TOWNHALL MEETING REPORT
On July 24, 2024, the Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Secretariat hosted a significant Townhall meeting. The event was attended by an esteemed group of leaders and community members, underscoring the importance of active community engagement and transparent governance.
DISTINGUISHED ATTENDEES
Among the notable attendees were the Local Government Chairman, Engr. Sheriff Adewale Musa, popularly known as Psalm 20, and Hon. (Mrs.) Omosowon Bukola Balogun, the Leader of the Ado-Odo/Ota Legislative Council. The Board Chairman of the African Foundation for Environment and Development (AFED), Otunba Bolaji Oyedeko, graced the occasion along with Omoba Deji Dosunmu, the Ogun West Senatorial Chairman of the Community Development Council, and Prince Olatunji, Chairman of the Ado-Odo/Ota Zonal Community Development Committee. The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association - Ota Branch, Mr. Adewale Adegoke Esq., was also in attendance.
Other key figures included Mr. Abiodun Akonthe Sejoro FCPA, the Secretary to the Local Government, Deaconess Sarah Odunneye, Supervisory Councilor for Minerals and Natural Resources, Hon. Kamal, Deputy Leader of the Ado-Odo/Ota Legislative Council, the Honorable Councilor representing Ere Ward, and Commander Toriola, the Divisional Officer of NCSDC - Agbara/Igbesa Division. The immediate past Chairman of the Local Government, Alhaji Wasiu Lawal, and Mr. Kayode Taiwo, Coordinator of the NUJ Independent Online Chapel, Ota, were also present.
The event was further enriched by the presence of Area Community Development Committee Chairmen, Community Development Association Chairmen, members of JONAPWD, artisans, women groups, youth groups, sports administrators, and numerous community members.
EVENT PROGRAM
The Townhall meeting commenced at 10:00 AM with a registration process managed by support staff. The Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Odunayo Igbaoyinbo from SERAP and Mr. Adeshola Afariogun, efficiently guided the day's proceedings.
The official program began at 10:30 AM with the introduction of the Local Government Chairman and his team by Abayomi Oke Asiwaju. This was followed by a warm welcome address from Otunba Bolaji Oyedeko, AFED's Board Chairman, setting a positive tone for the event. Engr. Sheriff Adewale Musa then delivered his opening remarks, highlighting the significance of the Townhall meeting in fostering community-government collaboration.
GOODWILL MESSAGES AND PRESENTATIONS
The session featured goodwill messages from key partners including representatives from SERAP, the Nigerian Bar Association - Ota Branch, the Zonal Community Development Committee, and the NUJ. These messages underscored the shared commitment to community development and governance.
Adeshola Afariogun presented the Citizens Charter of Demands, a pivotal moment that encapsulated the community’s aspirations and expectations from the local government.
ENGAGING WITH THE COMMUNITY
From 11:40 AM to 12:10 PM, the Local Government Chairman, Engr. Sheriff Adewale Musa, provided a comprehensive response and feedback on the Citizens Charter of Demands. His address reflected a deep understanding of the community's needs and a commitment to addressing them.
The interactive session, moderated by the Executive Director of AFED, commenced at 12:15 PM. Community members were invited to ask questions, and the Local Government Chairman, along with other speakers, provided insightful responses. This session was instrumental in fostering a direct and transparent dialogue between the community and its leaders.
CONCLUDING THE EVENT
The Townhall meeting concluded with a presentation of the next steps by the Executive Director of AFED, followed by closing remarks and a vote of thanks from Adeshola Afariogun. The event was adjourned by the Executive Director of AFED, marking the end of a productive and engaging meeting.
SUMMARY
The Ado-Odo/Ota Townhall meeting was a testament to the power of community engagement and transparent governance. Organized by the Ado-Odo/Ota Citizens Engagement Platform and AFED, in partnership with BudgIT, SERAP, the Nigerian Bar Association - Ota Bar, the Ado-Odo/Ota Zonal Community Development Committee, and the Nigerian Union of Journalists - Independent Online Chapel, Ota, the meeting successfully brought together diverse stakeholders. It provided a platform for voicing concerns, presenting demands, and fostering dialogue, ultimately contributing to the advancement of community development and good governance in Ado-Odo/Ota.
Updates CIVICUS: World Alliance for Citizen Participation Civic Engagement