We want Makinde in office until 2027 – pensioners

Senior citizens and pensioners in Oyo State have expressed confidence in Governor Seyi Makinde-led government, saying that they believe their well-being will be much improved if he is re-elected for a second term.

This was the recommendation of about 1,000 senior citizens and pensioners that benefited from the medical outreach organised by a professional group, Omituntun Initiative in Diaspora (OID), in support of the Makinde-led administration, at the Oyo State Pensioners House, Onireke, Ibadan.

The Commissioner for Works in Oyo State, Professor Daud Sangodoyin, thanked the beneficiaries for putting their trust in the government and appreciated the unflinching support of the pensioners in the state for the governor.
Sangodoyin called on the people to come out en masse to vote for Makinde for a second term in office, adding that, more people-oriented policies are being prepared in the Omituntun 2.0 government of Seyi Makinde.

Also, speaking at the event, the physician in charge of the outreach, Dr Olufemi Olowookere, expressed satisfaction with the care being administered to the senior citizens during the programme.

He said more such medical outreaches are needed in the country to alleviate the sufferings of the aged and pensioners.

Olowookere said: “We are here to render some assistance to our community, especially the older people as the dividend of democracy because older people do not have access to social security in this country and this is what our governor is doing through the Oyo State Health Insurance Agency (OYSHIA) and building of primary health centres across the state, which is highly commendable.”

Speaking with the newsmen at the event, Vice Chairman, Oyo State Union of Pensioners, Pastor James Ayoade, appreciated the organisers and described the governor as a promise keeper who has not only kept the promises made to pensioners but also improved their standard of living.

One of the beneficiaries, Prince Shina Oyelakin, applauded Makinde for his efforts in changing the fortunes of the state.

He also commended Omituntun Initiative in the Diaspora for putting such a medical intervention in place at this period in time.

He said: “I have stopped disturbing people, including my daughter, for financial assistance for the past three years, as my pension and gratuity entitlements are paid regularly by Seyi Makinde.”

Another beneficiary, Madam Remilekun Annah Arowolo, said pensioners are solidly behind the governor and are fully ready to give him their votes again on Saturday, March 11.

All senior citizens were given different medical attention with medications, and dental treatment, including eyeglasses free of charge.

Various medical cases attended to include eye care and checks, sugar level check for diabetics, blood pressure checks, and general medical consultations among others.

The OID medical outreach beneficiaries promise to vote for Makinde again.

The chants of the good works and welfare programmes the senior citizens and pensioners had benefited from the governor rented the air at the venue, while others with passion prayed for his re-election.

Other personalities at the event are Dr Olasunmbo Savage, Dr Bayo Adigun, Dr Adediran, Mrs Yemisi Ologunja, Mrs Funke Mosebolatan, Mr Ayomide Ogundeji, Mr Ajiboye, Pastor Aderibigbe, Mr Adeniyi Thomas, Mr Adedeji Badejo, Dr Adefila, Dr Adekanmbi, Dr Olakojo, Mrs Agatha Abiola, Mrs Victora Bolarinwa, Mrs Catherine Ayegboyin, Dr Mrs O. Oni, Dr E. Alayo, Mrs Temitope Ogunyemi, Abiodun Olajumoke, and Victoria Emilade, among others.