Member representing Yagba West state constituency in the Kogi State House of Assembly, Hon. Ibikunle Idowu, has reacted to a viral video where he empowered 10 constituents with a motorcycle tyre (taya alupupu) each.
Speaking to journalists on Thursday, the lawmaker, popular called ‘Kuli’, explained that the empowerment program was conducted in August 2023, barely two months after he was sworn in as a member of the Kogi State House of Assembly.
He noted that the initiative was launched at the peak of the fuel subsidy removal crisis, which led to a sharp increase in the cost of transportation and a general economic strain on the people.
In the widely shared video, the lawmaker was seen distributing motorcycle tyres to commercial riders in Yagba West, an act that has drawn mixed reactions from the public.
The lawmaker described the empowerment program as a well-thought-out intervention during a period of economic hardship.
“The program was not a recent one, as some are trying to make it seem. It was an initiative specifically designed for commercial motorcycle riders in Yagba West at a time when transportation fares had become unbearable due to the removal of fuel subsidy. At that period, the people were struggling with high transport costs, and I felt the need to step in and provide support where it was most needed,” he said.
According to the lawmaker, the initiative was a multimillion-naira self-sponsored project, executed despite the limited resources available to him at the time.
He emphasized that it was a personal effort to address the pressing concerns of his constituents, particularly the transport workers who bore the brunt of the economic hardship.
“This was a project I funded personally, without any external financial support. I had just assumed office as a legislator, and resources were limited, but I knew I could not wait indefinitely for government interventions before addressing the immediate concerns of my people. Leadership is about responding to the needs of the people in real time, and that was exactly what I did,” he explained.
Idowu disclosed that 50 commercial motorcycle riders benefited from the initiative, each receiving brand-new tyres, a cash token, and food items to ease their financial burdens. In addition to this, seven motorcycles were donated to the local transport association, a gesture aimed at further empowering the transport sector in Yagba West.
“This was not just about distributing motorcycle tyres.
“Fifty commercial riders received brand-new tyres, along with cash support and food items, to enable them to continue their businesses. Beyond that, we also donated seven motorcycles to the transport association to enhance their operations. It was a holistic intervention targeted at addressing the immediate needs of transporters in our constituency.”
Following the distribution, Idowu held a strategic meeting with the leadership of the commercial riders’ association to discuss a possible reduction in transport fares, which had been significantly increased earlier in August 2023 due to the rise in fuel prices.
“The meeting yielded a positive result. After engaging with their leaders, they agreed to review and adjust the fares downward in consideration of the hardship faced by commuters. This was a direct impact of the empowerment program, and I have no regrets about my actions,” he revealed.
Idowu emphasized that the ultimate goal of the program was not just to give out items but to bring about a tangible reduction in transport costs, which directly impacted the lives of ordinary people in Yagba West.
Reacting to the criticisms that have followed the viral video, Idowu dismissed claims that the initiative was misplaced or inadequate, insisting that the program was well-received by its beneficiaries.
“It is unfortunate that some people have twisted the narrative to suit their agenda, making it look like I did something wrong. I have no regrets about what I did because I know the beneficiaries appreciated it, and that is what truly matters. The purpose of leadership is to serve the people, and I will never be deterred by mischief makers who deliberately spread false narratives.”
He also urged the public to verify information before forming opinions, emphasizing that leadership is about making practical interventions that alleviate the suffering of the people.
The lawmaker reaffirmed his commitment to the development of Yagba West, promising to continue supporting initiatives that empower his constituents. He stated that his tenure in the Kogi State House of Assembly would focus on people-oriented policies and direct interventions that uplift the community.
“As long as I serve as the representative of Yagba West, I will continue to prioritize the well-being of my people. My focus is on real, tangible solutions that make a difference in the lives of my constituents,” he assured.
Idowu also called on stakeholders, community leaders, and the public to focus on constructive engagement rather than unnecessary distractions, noting that progress can only be achieved through unity and collective efforts.
