Chief [Mrs] Omokemi Oladipo, Pioneer Chairman of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Lagelu and District Society, Ibadan, has urged voters in Oyo State to prioritise credibility, competence and public interest in choosing candidates for the 2027 governorship election.

Oladipo said voters should look beyond campaign promises and carefully assess the character, capacity and proposed policies of aspirants before deciding whom to support.

Speaking in an interview, she noted that political contestants often made bold promises during campaigns but stressed that the electorate must remain vigilant in identifying candidates capable of delivering on their commitments.

“Everybody wants to prove that they will be able to carry out very good mandates and whatever mandates they are promising right now. But the important thing is that people are expected to actually open their eyes wide, be vigilant enough to identify a genuine campaign and a genuine candidate that will actually favour the members of the public,” she said.

She said the next governor of Oyo State should demonstrate a strong commitment to improving the welfare of residents, particularly those working in the informal sector.

According to her, a people-oriented administration should formulate policies that make life more meaningful for traders, artisans and other residents whose livelihoods depend on the informal economy.

Oladipo also advocated the appointment of professionals with relevant expertise to support government decision-making, arguing that their knowledge would help ensure sound policies and effective administration.

She cautioned against relying solely on political influence or loyalty when selecting people to manage public affairs, saying professionals should be given opportunities to contribute their expertise to governance.

The accountant said her interest in public service stemmed from her passion for humanity, particularly the welfare of women and the broader Nigerian population.

She explained that her years of professional practice and leadership had equipped her with experiences that could be deployed to improve people’s lives if given the opportunity to serve in public office.

On women’s participation in politics, Oladipo urged aspiring female politicians not to be discouraged by the challenges they might encounter.

She urged them to remain focused and persistent, stressing that greater participation by women was necessary to advance women’s development and welfare.

Oladipo also called for practical measures to empower women across different educational and economic backgrounds, noting that their needs varied and required appropriate interventions.

She, however, clarified that she was not currently contesting for any political office but would be willing to serve if appointed to a position where she could make meaningful contributions.

She urged voters to make informed decisions in the 2027 elections, insisting that the priority should be to elect leaders whose policies and actions would advance the interests of the people.