ABEOKUTA – The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Ogun State, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, has pledged to introduce a Universal Basic Salary Structure for Baales across the state if elected governor in 2027, describing the initiative as a strategic step towards strengthening grassroots governance and the traditional institution.
The senator made the promise on Monday during a strategic engagement with members of the Ogun State Council of Baales held in Abeokuta.
Addressing the gathering, Adeola acknowledged the critical role Baales play as the closest traditional authorities to the people, assuring them that his administration would accord them greater recognition and welfare.
He said the proposed salary structure had been overdue and vowed to make it one of the first issues his government would address upon assuming office.
According to him, the policy is achievable and would immediately be implemented to strengthen community leadership and improve grassroots administration.
Adeola stressed that he had maintained a close relationship with the Council of Baales over the years, noting that they had always been involved in his developmental initiatives.
He also assured the Baales that they would receive the official recognition they had been seeking, saying he would engage traditional rulers on the need to improve the welfare of Baales across the state.
“I think this has been long overdue and it has been a major challenge for the Council of Baales. Once and for all, we should resolve it. That is why I have promised that if elected in 2027, one major issue I will tackle is the Universal Basic Salary Structure for Baales to promote governance at the grassroots level and encourage them to do more for their communities.
“I strongly believe it is doable, and as soon as we get into government, this is one issue that will be resolved to promote governance at the grassroots level.
“There is nothing I have done before now without involving the Council of Baales. We have always worked together,” he said.
Responding to requests presented by the council, the senator announced the donation of a bus to the association and also promised to construct a befitting secretariat for the council.
“Everything your chairman requested, today I will give you a bus. Take it to the bank, I will construct your secretariat.
“I know about the Universal Basic Salary Structure, and with the support of Baales, I know we can achieve victory. The recognition you asked for, you will get it. I will also solicit the understanding of our monarchs because we need to take care of our Baales,” he stated.
The senator reiterated his belief that it was time for Ogun West to produce the state’s governor after decades of agitation.
“It is only fair and proper that after about 50 years, Yewa should be given the opportunity to govern Ogun State,” he said.
Adeola urged the Baales not to align with what he described as “used and dumped politicians,” assuring them that his administration would prioritise inclusive governance and sustainable development.
He highlighted several ongoing constituency intervention projects, including the installation of 60,000 solar-powered streetlights across Ogun State and the construction of over 30 roads.
The lawmaker also expressed optimism about the state’s economic future, citing the proposed development of Tongeji Island, offshore oil exploration, and the planned deep seaport as opportunities that would transform Ogun into an oil-producing and industrial hub.
Drawing attention to his legislative experience, Adeola said his eight years in the Lagos State House of Assembly, four years in the House of Representatives and 12 years in the Senate, coupled with his strong relationship with the Presidency, would attract greater development to Ogun State.
“My opponents are qualified to contest, but what we are talking about is good governance and responsive leadership. Ogun deserves something better,” he said.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Baales, High Chief Tunji Falola, appealed to the senator to prioritise the welfare of Baales if elected.
Falola lamented that the monthly ₦5,000 stipend introduced by the administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun had stopped since 2023.
“We want a unified salary structure. We don’t want to be used and dumped. We need a bus, and we want to be part of your administration and governance. We are over 3,000 Baales and we are ready to give you block votes. Give us a trial and see what meaningful contributions we can make. Count on the Baales; we shall never disappoint you,” he said.
Meanwhile, the over 3,000 Baales present at the event unanimously endorsed Senator Adeola Olamilekan Yayi as their governorship candidate for 2027.
The Baales in a communique issued at the end of the event, said the Senator Yayi’s endorsement was born out of their conviction in Senator Adeola’s proven record of service, his demonstrated commitment to community development and their confidence iCross-sectionfor a greater Ogun State.
