The political landscape in Ondo State has become increasingly charged following accusations by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that the state government, led by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has failed to address a surge in insecurity. The PDP, through its Director of Media and Publicity, Leye Igbagbo, has called on President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Ondo State, citing a concerning rise in killings and what they perceive as the government’s inaction. The PDP claims that over 50 people have been killed in recent attacks across the state, with no significant response or arrests made by the authorities. This perceived failure to protect lives and property, according to the PDP, constitutes a breach of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s constitutional duty.
The All Progressives Congress (APC), however, has vehemently refuted the PDP’s claims, dismissing them as politically motivated fabrications stemming from “the pit of political bitterness.” Steve Otaloro, the APC’s Director of Media and Publicity, defended the Aiyedatiwa administration, asserting that it has taken proactive steps to address security concerns. These measures, according to Otaloro, include strengthening the Amotekun Corps, a local security outfit, and promoting community policing initiatives. The APC contends that these efforts demonstrate the governor’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of Ondo State residents.
The PDP’s statement expressed deep alarm over the “ceaseless killings of hapless residents,” questioning how such attacks could persist “without any form of resistance for months running.” The party specifically highlighted the alleged massacre of approximately 50 individuals in various settlements within a month, emphasizing the lack of arrests or prosecutions in connection with these incidents. They also pointed to a history of impunity for armed herdsmen involved in previous attacks. The PDP posed a stark question: “Does a government still exist in Ondo State in the face of these unprovoked and unrestrained killings?”
The PDP’s appeal to President Tinubu to declare a state of emergency underscores the gravity of their concerns. They urged the President to consider this drastic measure if the state government continues to exhibit an inability to curb the violence, warning that the entire southwest region could become a “slaughter-house for incessant spilling of the blood of innocent souls.” This call for federal intervention reflects the PDP’s belief that the situation in Ondo State has deteriorated to a point where local authorities are no longer capable of maintaining order and protecting citizens.
In contrast, the APC maintains that the PDP’s allegations are baseless and intended to sow discord and panic among the population. They countered the PDP’s claims of inaction by highlighting the Aiyedatiwa administration’s multi-faceted security approach, particularly the Amotekun Neighbourhood Watch program. This initiative, they argued, is not a temporary fix but a proactive strategy designed to engage citizens in safeguarding their communities by fostering vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement agencies. The APC emphasized the governor’s unwavering commitment to strengthening these security measures, portraying Ondo State as a haven of peace and security.
Furthermore, the APC criticized the PDP’s approach to opposition politics, urging them to adopt a more constructive role focused on the welfare of citizens rather than political point-scoring. They called on the PDP to prioritize thoughtful critique and contribute to finding solutions, instead of fueling panic and discord through what they perceive as sensationalist rhetoric. The APC concluded by asserting that the people of Ondo State deserve better than the “petty squabbles” and sensationalism they accuse the PDP of engaging in. This exchange highlights the deep political divisions within Ondo State and the contrasting narratives presented by the ruling and opposition parties regarding the state’s security situation.
