Kemi Olatunde

Councilors in Ondo State have been called upon to make robust legislation on the challenges confronting people at the grassroots to enjoy government intervention.

Chairman, Owena Press Limited, Sir. Kayode Fasua made the call while hosting the state chapter of Councilors’ forum in his office in Akure on Tuesday.

According to him, there is need for them to advocate for people’s need in their domain especially in the area of health, infrastructure to mention a few, noting that The Hope titles is prepared to ensure that it is given necessary publicity to get government attention.

While describing the group as the closest representative to the people, he stated that it forms the legislative arm of respective local governments, which according to him is expected to meet on regular basis with the people so as to enjoy the dividends of democracy.

Expressing appreciation for the visit to the company, he noted that Owena Press Limited is the only surviving state owned newspaper in the South West, adding that it has been delivering as expected despite the challenges confronting it.

“Owena Press started as Owena news but rebranded as The Hope and subsequently added Weekend Hope. Sunday Hope will soon be out on paper.

We are not for any political party but for the people of the state.” he said

He hinted that since his assumption in office, he has revitalised the company especially with the introduction of high tech digital production of the front page.

He revealed that no fewer than 50000 readers key into the paper on daily basis through the upgrade of the company’s website to a modern standard.

He explained that the paper is circulated in Ekiti, Osun and Oyo States, stating that the company is working towards capturing the South West regime before other places are reached.

He called on them to invest in the paper, saying “We want to let government know the challenges of those in the rural areas by bridging the gap and that is why you are highly needed. We are working in ensuring that every local government has a column in the paper.

“We want to ensure that between The Hope and Weekend Hope, all the 18 Local Government areas are being covered in them in order to project you to the outside world.”

Speaking earlier, Coordinator, Northern Senatorial District, Kolade Joseph congratulated Fasua on his appointment as the Chairman of the company and described the event as a familiarisation visit aimed at seeking synergy with the company, saying “We can’t function as a legislative body without your support. We are here to let you know that we are at your service. We will continue to appreciate your collaborative efforts.”

Coordinator, Ondo Central for the group, Hon. Fasua Orisunmibare while describing Kayode Fasua as a man of sympathy and empathy, expressed appreciation to him for hosting the group.