The upcoming governorship election in Ondo State has seen Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate and current governor, take to the campaign trail with firm pledges to fulfill all promises made to the electorate. Speaking in the Ido Ani community during a recent campaign stop, Aiyedatiwa emphasized the importance of keeping commitments and pledged to avoid making empty promises. His focus is on improving security in the region, particularly as the communities in Ose Local Government, which borders Edo State, have grappled with persistent security challenges—most notably kidnappings by bandits. As a proactive measure, the governor has declared an increase in the deployment of security operatives to address these critical issues, promising to restore safety and ensure good governance.
During his address at the palace of the Alani of Ido Ani, Aiyedatiwa articulated his focus on understanding and meeting the needs of the local populace. He expressed confidence in his administration’s ability to enact change by ensuring that infrastructure projects, including roads, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions, receive timely attention. His remarks included a commitment to a participatory governance approach, where his Special Adviser on Infrastructure would solicit feedback from the community regarding their needs. Aiyedatiwa’s administration aims to foster development that transcends geographical boundaries within Ose Local Government, emphasizing that no community should be left behind.
The sentiments from the local leadership echoed Aiyedatiwa’s pledges, with traditional rulers like the Alani of Ido Ani and the Onidogun of Idogun urging the governor to address pressing infrastructural issues, particularly the dilapidated road network that has hampered economic activities. These monarchs highlighted the correlation between inadequate infrastructure and limited access to essential services, underscoring how crucial it is for the governor to prioritize improvements in complete road networks, healthcare services, and educational facilities. Their calls reflect a wider demand for greater political inclusion, notably through more appointments for the people from Ose Local Government to participate at various governance levels.
Acknowledging the disquiet of local leaders, Aiyedatiwa reassured them that he would heed their advice on improving the region’s infrastructure. He recognized the vital role that well-maintained roads and accessible healthcare facilities play in the overall development of communities, noting his administration’s commitment to upgrading these essential services. Additionally, he promised open communication lines between his administration and the residents, ensuring their voices are heard in the decision-making process that shapes their future. With investment in infrastructure regarded as a prerequisite for economic growth, Aiyedatiwa positioned himself as a proactive leader ready to tackle these challenges head-on.
Security challenges, a focal point of Aiyedatiwa’s campaign, resonated deeply with the traditional rulers and community members. Oba Rotimi Obamuagun, the Onimoru of Imoru Land, poignantly relayed the fears faced by residents due to insecurity, particularly in relation to farming—an essential livelihood for many in the region. He made a passionate plea for increased security measures to protect farmers and traders alike, highlighting the essential need for peace of mind to restore confidence in agricultural pursuits and economic activities. The governor’s commitment to bolstering security measures reflects a concern that intersects both the social and economic fabrics of these communities, tying the state’s stability directly to community welfare.
As the election approaches, Aiyedatiwa’s interactions reveal a strategy rooted in community engagement and responsiveness to local needs. By promoting meaningful dialogue with the traditional rulers and the community at large, he aims to establish a foundation of trust that reflects his governance style. The intertwining of promises related to security, infrastructure, and economic revitalization suggests an assurance that his administration is not just about political rhetoric. The overarching objective is to provide targeted and effective governance that addresses the greatest needs of Ose Local Government while fostering an environment where the collective aspirations of its citizens can be realized. Through these concerted efforts, Aiyedatiwa seeks to differentiate himself as a candidate willing to not only listen but to act decisively and accountably for the betterment of Ondo State.
