The African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate in Oyo State, Olooye Toafeek Adegboyega Adegoke FCA, Aare Egbe Omo Balogun of Ibadanland, has felicitated fathers across Oyo State and Nigeria on the occasion of International Father’s Day, describing fatherhood as a sacred responsibility that demands sacrifice, love, discipline, and unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of families and society.
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In a statement issued to commemorate the celebration, Adegoke emphasized the critical role fathers play in shaping responsible homes, nurturing future leaders, and promoting societal stability through exemplary leadership and moral guidance.
According to him, fathers remain the pillars of many homes, providing direction, protection, and support even in difficult circumstances. He noted that the values of diligence, integrity, compassion, and accountability often begin within the family through the influence of responsible fathers.
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The ADC gubernatorial candidate stated that his understanding of leadership is deeply rooted in the principles of fatherhood, stressing that a true leader must care for the people with the same dedication and commitment a father shows to his children.
“As a father, one must be accessible, protective, compassionate, and willing to make sacrifices for the growth and prosperity of those under his care. These are the same qualities I intend to bring to governance in Oyo State.
Leadership is not about power; it is about service, responsibility, and genuine concern for the welfare of the people,” he said.
Adegoke further pledged that given the opportunity to lead Oyo State, he would extend such fatherly care to every community through people-oriented policies, improved security, economic empowerment, quality education, and social welfare initiatives aimed at improving the lives of residents.
While celebrating fathers, the ADC standard-bearer also expressed deep concern over the continued captivity of the teachers and pupils abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, noting with sadness that the victims have now spent more than a month in the hands of their abductors.
He described the incident as heartbreaking and traumatic for the affected families, communities, and the entire state, stressing that no child or educator should be subjected to such an ordeal.
Adegoke commended security agencies for their ongoing efforts to secure the release of the victims and maintain peace across the state. He, however, urged them to intensify operations and sustain intelligence-driven strategies to ensure the safe and unconditional rescue of those still in captivity.
“The prolonged captivity of these innocent pupils and teachers remains a source of concern to all well-meaning citizens. I commend our security personnel for their commitment and sacrifices, but I appeal for renewed efforts to bring this unfortunate situation to a successful end. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the victims and their families,” he stated.
He prayed for divine intervention, protection, and strength for the abducted victims and their loved ones, expressing optimism that they would soon regain their freedom and reunite safely with their families.
Adegoke concluded by urging fathers across Oyo State to continue serving as role models, guardians, and agents of positive change in their homes and communities, while calling on citizens to work together in building a safer, more prosperous, and more compassionate Oyo State for future generations.
