The Democratic Leadership Alliance candidate for Ilaje/Ese-Odo Federal Constituency in Ondo State, Taiwo Ilawole, has criticised lawmakers who distribute foodstuffs to constituents under the guise of empowerment.

He argued that bags of rice and cash handouts only provide temporary relief and cannot solve the deeper problems facing the people.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Ilawole said meaningful support must focus on building skills, creating livelihoods, strengthening small businesses and helping families become self-reliant.

He maintained that food gifts alone fall short of the lasting help constituents truly need.

The candidate also pointed out that despite billions of naira allocated through Zonal Intervention Projects, the federal constituency still lacks adequate healthcare facilities, well-equipped schools and proper road construction. He said essential services and infrastructure continue to suffer from limited impact of available funding.

If elected, Ilawole promised to push for practical programmes such as vocational and technical training, support for local entrepreneurs, access to productive equipment and initiatives that lead to sustainable jobs.

He also pledged to work with President Bola Tinubu’s administration to extend the benefits of ongoing economic reforms to the area.

Among his key priorities, he vowed to seek a lasting solution to the sea-incursion crisis affecting Aiyetoro community and to attract foreign direct investment that can generate employment and business opportunities in Ilaje and Ese-Odo Local Government Areas.

He further promised to promote awareness of federal education support schemes, including loan and scholarship programmes, so that more students and young people can benefit.