Why I Want to Represent Osun Central At The Senate — K-RAD
A group of journalists Interviewed Kunle Rasheed Adegoke (SAN) in Abuja, after he submitted his Expression of Interest form to become APC flag bearer to contest Osun Central Senatorial District election in 2027.
The Excerpts
Journalists: You have built a successful career as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and respected legal practitioner. Why are you now seeking to represent Osun Central at the Senate?
K-RAD: Public service has always been part of my calling. Law gave me the platform to defend justice, advocate for fairness, and contribute to nation-building, but politics offers a broader opportunity to directly influence policies and improve the lives of our people.
My aspiration to represent Osun Central is rooted in service, responsibility, and a deep desire to provide purposeful representation. I believe our District deserves a Senator who understands the challenges of the people, possesses the competence to engage effectively at the national level, and has the courage and integrity to defend the interests of our communities.
For me, this is not about personal ambition; it is about collective progress and giving Osun Central a stronger voice in national affairs.
Journalists: Many politicians make promises during campaigns. What makes your aspiration different?
K-RAD: Leadership must be built on credibility, consistency, and capacity. Over the years, I have maintained a reputation for principled leadership, professional excellence, and grassroots engagement.
I have spent decades building relationships across communities, supporting causes that uplift ordinary people, mentoring young professionals, and advocating for justice and equity. My aspiration is not driven by desperation for power but by preparation and experience.
I understand governance, legislation, policy, and negotiation. Beyond that, I understand the people because I have remained connected to them. Representation should not be seasonal; it must be continuous and people-driven.
Journalists: What are the major priorities you intend to pursue if elected senator?
K-RAD: My focus will revolve around five critical areas.
First is responsive representation. The people must feel connected to governance. I want to establish a transparent and accessible system where constituents are regularly engaged and informed.
Second is youth empowerment and human capital development. Osun Central is blessed with talented young people, but many lack opportunities. We must invest in education, digital skills, entrepreneurship, vocational training, sports development, and innovation-driven initiatives.
Third is economic growth and local enterprise support. We need policies that encourage small businesses, attract investment, improve access to finance, and strengthen agriculture and local industries.
Fourth is infrastructure and community development. Our roads, schools, healthcare facilities, and public institutions require strategic interventions and effective federal collaboration.
Lastly, I am passionate about institutional reforms and good governance. Nigeria can only move forward when public institutions work efficiently, fairly, and transparently.
Journalists: You are often described as grassroots-oriented despite your elite professional status. How have you maintained that connection?
K-RAD: I have never disconnected from my roots. Titles and professional accomplishments should never separate a leader from the people.
I strongly believe leadership begins with listening. Over the years, I have consistently engaged with traditional institutions, community leaders, market women, youth groups, artisans, professionals, and political stakeholders across our communities.
My strength comes from understanding the realities of ordinary people, the farmer struggling with absence of relevant farming implements, lack of support and poor roads, the graduate without opportunities, the trader battling economic hardship, and the young person searching for direction. Those realities shape my vision and priorities.
Journalists: Recently, you received endorsements from APC elders and stakeholders in Osogbo. What does that mean to you?
K-RAD: I consider it a huge responsibility and a humbling vote of confidence. When respected elders and stakeholders publicly express trust in your leadership, it reinforces the obligation to remain committed to service, humility, and integrity.
What encouraged me most was the unity of purpose demonstrated at the meeting. It showed that our aspiration is becoming a collective movement driven by shared hopes for better representation and sustainable progress in Osun Central.
Journalists: Some observers believe your early submission of nomination forms signals seriousness and preparedness. Was that deliberate?
K-RAD: Certainly. Leadership requires preparation, discipline, and respect for process. By submitting my nomination forms early, I wanted to demonstrate readiness, commitment, and confidence in the democratic process within our party.
Politics should not be approached casually. If you seek to lead people, you must show seriousness, organization, and the capacity to act responsibly.
Journalists: What message do you have for APC members and the people of Osun Central ahead of the primaries?
K-RAD: My message is simple: this journey belongs to all of us. I ask for unity, peaceful engagement, and collective commitment to the future of Osun Central.
I remain committed to issue-based politics rooted in ideas, development, and service. Together, we can build a stronger voice for our district and create opportunities that benefit every community across Osun Central.
I am ready to serve with dedication, humility, courage, and accountability. By the grace of God and the support of our people, I believe we can usher in a new era of effective and impactful representation.
Journalists: Finally, who is Kunle Rasheed Adegoke beyond politics and law?
K-RAD: I am simply a man who believes in service, justice, and community. I value integrity, relationships, and humanity. My greatest motivation is the possibility of making meaningful contributions that improve lives and leave lasting impact.
At the end of the day, leadership is not about titles or positions; it is about responsibility and legacy.
