The Oke-Ogun Council of Elders (OCE) has pledged its dedication to advancing the development, security, and political representation of the Oke-Ogun region. This commitment was made during a recent meeting held at the residence of the council's president, Bamidele Dada, a former Minister of State for Agriculture and Water Resources, in Bodija, Ibadan, Oyo State.

The gathering saw the participation of notable figures from the Oke-Ogun community, including former Oyo State Deputy Governor Chief Iyiola Oladokun, Professor Layi Egunjobi, Sir Oladoja Oladele, Comrade Remi Adegbola, and Professor L. Ojedapo, among others. The council members congratulated Adebayo Lawal on his recent appointment as acting governor of Oyo State, while also commending Governor Seyi Makinde for the smooth transition of power.

In terms of security, the council expressed gratitude to Brigadier General Kunle Togun and community leaders like Primate Samson Ojoawo and Sunday Adeyemo, known as Igboho, for their contributions to ensuring the safety of residents. They also acknowledged the efforts of both federal and state governments, along with security agencies, in rescuing individuals recently abducted in Oriire. The council urged authorities to enhance security measures to prevent future abductions and facilitate the release of those still in captivity.

The establishment of a federal university in Okeho, Kajola Local Government Area, by President Bola Tinubu’s administration was also highlighted, with the council appealing for sufficient funding to ensure its effective operation. Furthermore, the council called on public office holders to prioritize the interests of Oke-Ogun, reaffirming the region’s ambition to elect the next governor of Oyo State. They emphasized that this goal would be pursued through dialogue, democratic engagement, and constructive discussions.

The OCE resolved to engage with Oke-Ogun aspirants who have secured party tickets for upcoming elections, urging them to present clear development plans for the region. The council underscored the need for increased investment in education, skills acquisition, and human capital development to create more opportunities for the youth.

In a bid to foster unity, the council appealed to Oke-Ogun indigenes to come together, regardless of political, religious, or social affiliations, to work towards the region's progress. The development agenda of the council is anchored on the Oke-Ogun Development Blueprint (2025–2035), a comprehensive roadmap for growth across various sectors, which is set to be formally launched soon. The council reiterated its commitment to leadership and advocacy on critical issues affecting Oke-Ogun, with a focus on unity, security, education, good governance, political representation, and sustainable development.