Testimonies, Turnout Mark Kuso’s Cash Empowerment Drive in Ibarapa East
Emotions, personal testimonies, and a strong show of grassroots support defined Wednesday’s cash empowerment programme organised by Ibarapa East chairmanship aspirant, Hon. Abdul Akeem Akintola, popularly known as Kuso.
The event, held at the Eruwa Township Hall on April 22, 2026, saw 100 residents drawn from the ten wards of the local government receive financial assistance under the “2026 Continuity Cash Empowerment” initiative.
Unlike a typical political gathering, the programme took on a testimonial tone as community leaders and beneficiaries recounted past encounters with the aspirant, painting a picture of a man whose acts of generosity predate his political ambition.
One of the most striking moments came when an elder from Lanlate, Ajibola, narrated how Kuso came to his aid during a distressing incident in 2011. According to him, the aspirant chased away miscreants who had attacked him and went as far as buying him a new pair of shoes.
In a symbolic gesture that drew applause, the elder revealed he wore the same shoes to the event as a mark of appreciation.
The gathering, which attracted a large crowd including PDP leaders and stakeholders, further highlighted Kuso’s growing influence within the political structure of Ibarapa East.
Representing the Local Government Chairman, Alhaji Aderibigbe Ganiyu, the Secretary to the Local Government, Hon. Ogundele Taiwo, commended the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful. He also urged beneficiaries to make judicious use of the funds.
The Women Leader in the local government, Mrs. Ayaoba Abiola, echoed similar sentiments, describing the aspirant as a leader deeply connected to the needs of the people.
Other speakers, including stakeholders from Lanlate and Eruwa, stressed the need for unity and loyalty, urging residents to rally behind Kuso’s ambition. They maintained that his consistent support for the community over the years distinguishes him from others.
In his address, Kuso shifted focus from politics to personal growth, reflecting on his transformation over the years. He acknowledged that he was once perceived as stubborn but noted that his encounter with Governor Seyi Makinde helped reshape his outlook.
He maintained that his actions have always been guided by a strong dislike for injustice and oppression, adding that his empowerment initiatives were not driven by electoral considerations but by a genuine desire to uplift people.
“I have been doing this long before now,” he said, citing past interventions such as the distribution of solar lights, textbooks, and provision of boreholes in communities.
Kuso also used the opportunity to call for unity among party members and residents, pledging to expand such initiatives if given the mandate to serve.
The event concluded with the presentation of beneficiaries by ward leaders, as Kuso and his wife personally handed over cash to each recipient.
For many in attendance, the programme was not just about financial support but a reflection of longstanding relationships, loyalty, and a shared vision for the future of Ibarapa East.