Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Rauf Olaniyan has stated that Makinde-led administration is opened to constructive criticisms rather than unnecessary crucification.
Olaniyan made this known on Saturday night while breaking fast with journalists in Ibadan, Oyo State capital.
He noted that many things would have gone wrong if newsmen were not available to be the watchdogs of the society.
The press men were led by Chairman, Oyo State Council of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Alhaji Ademola Babalola.
The deputy governor added that things would have gone worse more than it is if journalists were not there to keep the government on its toes.
He, however, urged the members of the union to write stories about the state government truthfully and not to mislead the public.
“Do not crucify us, criticize us constructively so that we can make amendments. Let journalists write the way it is.
“Many things would have gone wrong if journalists are not available to be the watchdog of the society. If you are not around to be the watchdogs of the society, things would have gone worse than this”, Olaniyan said.
Olaniyan also applauded the effort of journalists toward the development of the society, saying as the fourth estate of the realm, their roles are crucial to nation building.
He further stated that the emergence of the present administration in the state led by Makinde remains a big surprise to some people, particularly the opposition parties.
He added that prior to the 2019 gubernatorial election in the state, nobody could believe that Makinde could win the election, adding that their victory came as a surprise to the opposition.
“They told us that we have never held any political office before, so it will be difficult for us to win the election, I told them that they are going to see a surprise and the surprise eventually happened when we won.
“I have been in public service for over 28 years, I have different experiences, and all these experiences are beyond politics.
“On behalf of my family and my political associates, I thank you all”. He concluded.
