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Ondo Redemption Front criticizes state government for neglecting key issues

The Ondo Redemption Front has called on Governor Aiyedatiwa to prioritize governance over political conflicts.

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Ondo Redemption Front criticizes state government for neglecting key issues
ORF accuses Ondo govt of neglecting governance for political manoeuvring — Photo: Vanguard News

The Ondo Redemption Front (ORF) has publicly criticized the Ondo State Government, led by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, for prioritizing political manoeuvring over essential governance issues. In a recent address, ORF Chairman Ayodeji Ologun urged the governor to redirect focus towards pressing matters such as security, healthcare, education, water supply, workers' welfare, and infrastructure development.

In its August State of the State Address, the group expressed disappointment over the state's failure to fully leverage opportunities presented by the federal government under President Bola Tinubu's administration. ORF highlighted the presence of three prominent Ondo indigenes in the Federal Executive Council, including the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Youth Development, Ayo Olawande, and the Minister of State for Finance, Taiwo Oyedele. They argued that this representation should facilitate the attraction of more federal projects and investments to the state.

ORF pointed to several significant projects, such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the reconstruction of key road corridors like Ore-Ondo-Akure and Owo-Benin, as potential catalysts for development. The group questioned, "What is Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa doing with this opportunity?" suggesting that internal political struggles within the All Progressives Congress (APC) are detracting from the state's progress.

The organization also raised alarms about the increasing political tension within the Ondo APC, warning that ongoing disputes could jeopardize the state's relationship with the federal government. They noted reports of a "Rainbow Coalition" forming within the party and alleged attempts by factions loyal to the governor to challenge party decisions regarding National Assembly primaries. While acknowledging the governor's denial of any wrongdoing, ORF questioned whether such political maneuvers could occur without his awareness.

In addition to political concerns, ORF addressed public health issues, particularly regarding air pollution in Akure. The group called for immediate action to identify the source of an offensive odour affecting several neighborhoods, demanding transparency about the health risks posed to residents. They also criticized the unreliable public water supply in Akure, urging the government to ensure that ongoing pipe-laying projects result in accessible water for citizens.

On the education front, ORF expressed concern over ongoing industrial disputes in state-owned tertiary institutions, particularly at Adekunle Ajasin University and Rufus Giwa Polytechnic. They highlighted the need for improved workers' welfare and urged the government to settle outstanding financial obligations to these institutions.

The group outlined a series of demands, including a halt to political activities that could undermine the APC and President Tinubu's re-election efforts, the establishment of a mechanism to leverage Ondo's federal presence, and the publication of findings related to the Akure air pollution incident. They also called for a clear timetable for restoring reliable water supply, settling financial obligations to educational institutions, and enhancing public hospital services.

ORF concluded by emphasizing that the governor must prioritize governance over political ambitions, stating, "Ondo State cannot continue crawling while its enormous potential remains trapped beneath political distractions and administrative indecision." They urged Aiyedatiwa to focus on delivering tangible improvements in the lives of residents, reminding him that the people are watching and history will judge his administration.

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