By Idowu Ajanaku
While it is quite understandable that within the political matrix, forces — both fratricidal and forward-looking — play themselves out for either self-aggrandizement or for selfless and patriotic reasons, open hatred, deep contempt, or intense disdain for political leaders by political jobbers should be firmly predicated on unimpeachable facts and figures, certainly not on parochial sentiments.
Unfortunately, it is against this dark backdrop that an unbiased response to the recent article titled, “Aiyedatiwa’s Years of the Locusts,” couched in vile vituperation and casting undeserved aspersions on Governor , becomes necessary.
Such sentiment recalls a similar political scenario that played out in under the then newly sworn-in governor, , in 2015, shortly after taking over from his predecessor, . There were doubts about his capacity to deliver on electoral promises, but Ambode assured critics that governance was not a 100-metre dash but a carefully articulated long-distance race.
Within one and a half years, his administration’s infrastructural development left critics astonished. Projects included overhead bridges at Abule-Egba and Ajah, the six-lane road to the , and the modernization of inner roads across the state. Many of his critics subsequently became admirers.
In a similar vein, Aiyedatiwa’s infrastructural strides are unfolding. A five-kilometre road project is ongoing in each of the 18 local government areas of . The construction of Port Ondo is also underway, aimed at transforming the socio-economic trajectory of the state.
Furthermore, work is progressing on a proposed 500,000-barrel-per-day modular refinery expected to generate employment and support a Free Trade Zone that could lead to the establishment of an international airport in Ilaje. The Ifon Ceramic Factory is also due for commissioning, reflecting the investment-friendly climate fostered by the administration. The overall objective is to transform Ondo from a civil service-dependent state into an industrial hub.
Idowu Ajanaku is the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Ondo State.
Regarding allegations that the governor channelled billions of naira to unnamed Senior Advocates of Nigeria over legal matters concerning his tenure, such claims are spurious and unsupported by evidence.
Rather, the governor remains focused on delivering democratic dividends to the people, as demonstrated by the completion of the Akure overhead bridge initiated by the late former governor, , and ongoing road projects across the state’s 203 wards, alongside efforts in education, healthcare, women and youth empowerment, and tourism.
Similarly, allegations linking the governor to attacks on political figures are unfounded. Despite political disagreements during party contests, Aiyedatiwa has maintained a reputation as a man of peace.
While criticism is welcome in an all-inclusive political environment, it should be constructive, evidence-based, and devoid of primordial sentiments. Public commentary often overlooks critical facts by failing to consider all sides of an issue.
Like Ambode, who faced early skepticism in Lagos, Aiyedatiwa is gradually reshaping the socio-economic landscape of Ondo State and deserves patience, understanding, and objective assessment rather than condemnation driven by hostility.
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