Independence: Osun ADC Reps Candidate, Ogunkanmi Urges FG To Ease Hardship, Improve Nigerians’ Living Conditions

The House of Representatives candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for Ayedire, Iwo and Ola-Oluwa Federal Constituency in Osun State, Hon. Abidemi Gbenga Ogunkanmi, has called on the Federal Government to translate Nigeria’s independence into tangible improvements in the living conditions of citizens.

Ogunkanmi made the call in his Independence Day message made available to journalists in Osogbo on Thursday, saying Nigerians deserved good governance, economic stability and policies capable of easing the burden of rising living costs on households.

He said the 66th Independence Anniversary should serve as an opportunity for leaders to assess the country’s progress, address prevailing economic challenges and take concrete measures to restore public confidence in Nigeria’s future.

The ADC candidate expressed concern that many Nigerians continued to struggle to meet basic needs, secure decent employment and access quality healthcare and education, urging the government to make citizens’ welfare a central priority.

According to him, the significance of independence should extend beyond ceremonial celebrations and political speeches to include meaningful efforts to improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians.

“What does independence mean to a Nigerian who cannot comfortably feed his family? What does freedom mean to a young graduate without employment opportunities? And what future awaits the next generation if economic hardship continues to deepen?” he asked.

Ogunkanmi, who served as Deputy Chief Whip of the Osun State House of Assembly during the Seventh Assembly, urged the Federal Government to implement policies that would strengthen the economy, support local businesses, create employment opportunities and reduce financial pressure on households.

He also called for increased investment in education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure and youth empowerment, noting that Nigeria’s abundant human and natural resources could contribute more significantly to national development if effectively harnessed.

The former lawmaker further stressed the need for greater accountability and responsiveness in governance, urging elected officials to remain mindful of their responsibility to the people who entrusted them with political power.

He maintained that addressing the country’s challenges required purposeful leadership, effective policies and a sustained commitment to improving the welfare of citizens.

Despite the difficulties confronting the country, Ogunkanmi urged Nigerians not to lose hope, saying national development required the collective efforts of government, citizens and other stakeholders.

He congratulated Nigerians on the 66th Independence Anniversary and prayed for peace, unity, prosperity and a brighter future for the country.