New Year Message: Akeem Salawu Ilana Mekunu, Calls for United, People-Driven Opposition in Oyo State

A frontline political figure in Oyo State, Akeem Salawu, popularly known as Ilana Mekunu, has extended warm New Year greetings to the people of the state, urging them to remain hopeful and steadfast in the collective quest for justice, fairness and genuine development.

In his New Year message, Salawu expressed deep appreciation to sons and daughters of Oyo State for their resilience and unwavering belief in a better future, noting that the past year tested the strength and resolve of the people.

“As we step into this New Year, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to every son and daughter of Oyo State who has continued to believe in a better tomorrow for our people. The past year reminded us of our strength, resilience and unwavering spirit as citizens who yearn for justice, fairness and meaningful progress for the ordinary people,” he said.

Salawu called for a renewed commitment to unity, purpose and responsible leadership, stressing that Oyo State deserves an opposition that is courageous, strategic and genuinely people-centred.

According to him, the state can no longer afford an opposition that is divided, silent or distracted, especially as the lives of ordinary citizens remain largely unchanged despite years of political rotation between dominant parties.

“For too long, our state has moved between the same political structures, yet the struggles of the common man remain the same. If we truly love Oyo State, every opposition force must rise above ego and personal interests to challenge both the PDP and APC with ideas, integrity and collective strength,” Salawu declared.

He further urged political actors to embrace alignment over rivalry, courage over compromise, and true representation over mere political symbolism, emphasizing that the people are watching and the future of the state is at stake.

“History will only remember those who stood up when it mattered most. Let this year mark the beginning of bold voices, shared purpose and sincere representation for our people,” he added.

Salawu concluded his message with prayers for liberty, clarity of vision, unity of purpose and prosperity for Oyo State, expressing confidence in a brighter future.

“Oyo State shall rise and shine. May this New Year bring freedom, clearer vision and lasting progress for all our people,” he said.

He wished residents a prosperous and fulfilling New Year.