By Julius Alabi, Akure
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Ondo state, Evangelist Olumuyiwa Asagunla, has formally declared his intention to run for the House of Representatives seat in the forthcoming bye-election in Akoko North Federal Constituency in the state.
Asagunla, a former Senior Special Assistant on Youth Matters seeks to fill the vacant seat representing Akoko North West and Akoko North East Federal Constituency, a seat left vacant after the resignation of Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who is now a Minister representing Ondo State at the Federal Executive Council.
The APC Chieftain made the declaration at a news briefing with journalists in Akure, the Ondo State Capital at the weekend.
He said his decision to vie for the position stemmed from his desire to support the transformation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration as well as contribute to the development of the constituency.
He reiterated his determination to work towards the eradication of poverty from his constituency and assured that he would strive to ensure sustainable youths and women empowerment if elected.
“Good governance and quality representation is what we need to take our people out from poverty and underdevelopment, and this I will strive to achieve if given the mandate,” he said.
Evangelist Asagunla’s decision to run for public office stems from a lifelong dedication to public service and a proven record of leadership. Hailing from Okeagbe Akoko in Akoko North West local government in Ondo State, he has always felt deeply connected to his community and is committed to its development and progress.
A Medical Laboratory Scientist by profession, Asagunla’s versatility extends beyond the laboratory. He is also known as a musician, a furniture maker, a youth motivator, and a respected political strategist. These diverse experiences have endowed him with a unique perspective and a wide range of skills that he believes are vital for effective leadership.
His political journey commenced with his appointment as a Personal Assistant to the late Governor Agagu, where he was entrusted with political matters in the Ondo North senatorial district. Subsequently, he served as a Special Assistant on political matters for Ondo North and as the State Youth Coordinator, where he oversaw the needs of students, artisans, and other vital groups.
Evangelist Asagunla is the founder of the Sunshine State Youth Movement and Sunshine Band, initiatives aimed at empowering and uplifting youth in the state. He also played a crucial role in drafting the first Ondo State Youth Policy, a landmark achievement for youth development.
With a strong commitment to youth empowerment, he contributed to national politics by helping produce the first NANS president from Ondo State, Speaker Nigeria Youth Parliament from Ondo State and Vice Chairman National Youth Council Nigeria. He was appointed as SSA Youth Affairs to Gov. Mimiko in 2012. He was further nominated and appointed as a member of the Federal Government Committee responsible for coordinating job initiatives for vulnerable youths in Ondo state.
Currently, Asagunla serves as a Member of the Rufus Giwa Polytechnic Governing Council, where he plays a pivotal role in advancing education in the state.
Throughout his political career, Evangelist Asagunla has consistently demonstrated his ability to mobilize support, contributing to the victories of various candidates. His active involvement in Ondo state politics, particularly in Akoko North West and East, spans over two decades, making him a recognized and respected figure in Ondo State.
As he embarks on this new chapter of his political career, Evangelist Asagunla is firmly convinced that he is the best candidate to represent the interests of Akoko North West and Akoko North-East Federal Constituency. His goal is to bring the dividends of democracy to the doorsteps of his constituents and to ensure quality representation at the Green Chambers.
He, therefore, invites the good people of Akoko North West and Akoko North-East Federal Constituency to join him on this political journey to create a brighter future for our federal constituency and the state saying “together we can achieve remarkable progress and make a lasting impact on the lives of the people we serve.”