In my recent political engagements and meetings across Oyo State, I’ve looked into the faces of our people and listened closely to their words, and what strikes me is the deep love they hold for our state and country. Their questions and concerns about jobs, education, and a future for their children—carry a mix of hope and worry that both amuses and unsettles me. It’s not that their dreams are wrong or greedy; it’s that, deep in my heart, I believe we should have moved beyond these struggles in this century. Yet, the fear I see—that their children’s tomorrow might slip away—haunts me. I find it as a wake-up call that pushes me to address these long-standing issues with urgency and care.
Many express a troubling doubt, wondering if my promises, like those of politicians before me, will fade into disappointment or worse. This weighs heavily on me, really – it stirrs a mix of sadness and resolve. Year after year, they’ve heard grand plans only to face setbacks, and now they question if I’ll be different. But instead of letting this drag me down, it reignites my desire to serve. I tell myself, “These people really deserve more than broken hopes—it’s not right.” This frustration fuels my determination to prove that leadership can be a tool for real change, not just empty words, and I’m driven to turn their trust into something worthwhile.
During interviews with the press and radio stations, a recurring question has been, “What is your plan for Oyo State?” I understand these journalists are doing their job, probing my readiness and vision, having sat through similar sessions with other politicians. But I look through and beyond their questions, I sense a shared exhaustion with the same old outcomes and a genuine wish for something better for our people. They press me with “how”—how will I improve education, healthcare, infrastructure? In those brief airtime moments, I’ve done my best to outline my ideas: better schools, working hospitals, and solid roads, all with focus and fairness. Their intensity mirrors the public’s longing, and it strengthens my resolve to deliver answers that match their dreams. I have no other commitments.
I want to assure the good people of Oyo State that I stand apart from the “promise and fail” stereotype some political elites carry. My years of hard work have given me decent resources, which I’ve given back through philanthropy and economic empowerment projects. Unlike looters, my focus is service, not self-gain— and that is a distinction God has bestowed into my life. I’m not alone in this; I know for a fact that there are trustworthy, intelligent, and forward-thinking individuals in our political society but are overshadowed by a few bad eggs. As governor, I’ll seek them out and build a team to run Oyo State for everyone’s benefit—creating jobs, educating our young people, and lifting every community with the courage and foresight they bring.
One other truth I’ve faced is how the political arena can corrupt even those with good intentions, a fear some of you have shared with me in comments or during conversations. I’m grateful for your concern, but I’m an adult who speaks honestly and frankly to myself. I promise you, I won’t be swayed by fleeting temptations or worldly distractions that fade away and forget the values I’ve built over decades or the honour of being the First Fakhar Soliheen of Oyo State (the Pride of the Righteous of Oyo State). From the start, I knew that, God willing, as governor, I’d one day be a former governor—and my legacy will matter. I want to walk our streets after office, respected for my contributions and years of quality service, and be called to greater service. That’s my creed, that’s what matters to me, and with your support, I’ll fulfil it. God bless you and God bless our Oyo State.
~ Dr. Adewale Kolapo Kareem (AKK)
Oyo APC Gubernatorial Aspirant
APC, PROGRESS!
Oyo 2027
AKK 2027
Governor 2027
AKK! Aseyori ni tiwa.
AKK!! Ajose Ajoje
AKK!!! A Task that must be done.
Saturday, July 26, 2025
