Honourable Idris Lapade is the transition Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government Area of Oyo State. In this interview with Dapo Salami, the young dynamic chairman spoke about the achievements of APC led government in the state and also maintained that the transformational programmes of the Governor Abiola Ajimobi have moved the state to a better height. He said if other governors can emulate Oyo State number one man, their states too will surely witness the same development. Excerpts:
How was growing up like?
Well, my growing up was fantastic because I grew up under the tutelage of strict parents. I was a little bit stubborn but thank God and my parents had what it takes to call me to order. They taught me how to be a noble character. I am grateful to them for the training they gave to me. Even though I was very intelligent, I was just too stubborn. I started my education at Subuola Memorial Nursery and Primary School, Agodi, Ibadan. From there, I moved to Government College, Ibadan and from there, I proceeded to University of Lagos, Akoka where I studied Business Administration. I gained admission to the university at the age of 16. I just have to thank God for my life and I will always be grateful to my parents for the kind of training they gave to me.
What were you doing before you delved into politics?
After my graduation from the university, I started my telecommunications business in 2001. I was among the first GSM dealers we had in Ibadan then. Also, I ventured into hospitality business. To God be the glory; I have an hotel in Lekki, Lagos. I have never worked under anybody in my life.
What prompted you to join partisan politics and even your choice of party?
Let me tell you that I have been involved in politics for a very long time. I started politics from Lagos where I served as campaign manager for so many honorables and senators. Also; my father late Alhaji Mutiu Lapade was also a source of inspiration to me. He served the good people of Oyo State in different capacities. When I wanted to contest for the position of House of Representatives in 2011 and I was denied the ticket; my friends in Lagos laughed at me that I am just wasting my time but thank God today that I am here serving the good people of Ibadan North Local Government. I have always been in the progressive fold since the time I joined politics.
What is your experience as chairman, Ibadan North Local Government like?
The experience has been very hectic because coming from a private sector to join politics is not easy at all. I came to Ibadan just because I wanted to serve my people. I have over 50 workers working with me in Lagos but I just decided to come and serve my people in Ibadan. You know local government is the closest administration to the people at the grassroots. Ibadan North Local Government is a metropolitan area; that is why my experience has been very challenging.
How far have you impacted on the lives of the people of Ibadan North Local Government?
I can tell you categorically that we have been able to touch every sector. I will not want to rate myself but I know the people of this council area appreciate our good works. We have the biggest acquisition centre in the state. When we came on board; we had just 70 students but thank God; we have trained over 2000 students in the last three years. Even the governor was highly impressed when he came for the graduation ceremony of our students; even we had a 70-year old man that graduated that day. Also, we empowered the best students among them. Also, we have built a hospital at ward 9 Mokola area. We have done a lot for the people; that is why they are praying for us.
How would you describe Senator Abiola Ajimobi, do you think he deserves another term in office?
Well, I will describe Senator Abiola Ajimobi as our God-sent messiah. He is a man of peace, transparency and equality. At times; he leaves the office by 2:00am and this is a man that believes in hardwork. The transformation that Oyo State has witnessed in the last three and half years is unprecedented. We just have to encourage him to serve us again. He has moved the state to a better height. We should all support his second term ambition if truly we are interested in moving the state forward.
What is your ambition for 2015?
At the moment, I am saddled with the responsibilities of Ibadan North Local Government. I am still consulting and praying to God for His guidance. Very soon, I will let you know my ambition.