

In Ondo State, Nigeria, a troubling situation has unfolded, highlighting a concerning trend in politics – the excessive wielding of power by politicians even when facing terminal illness. This issue raises questions about the essence of genuine governance, as the powers meant to benefit the masses are, at times, used to settle political scores and impoverish the people. It is essential to address the case of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and advocate for a course correction in Ondo State.

Governor Akeredolu’s repeated absences from his duties due to illness have led to a power struggle within the state’s leadership. While there is an assertion that the acting Governor, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, fills the void during these absences, reports also suggest internal divisions within the state cabinet regarding who should assume control. This internal strife underscores a significant crisis of leadership.

More concerning than the power struggle itself is the apparent lack of governance during the Governor’s absence. Reports indicate that there has been a notable deficit of governance in Ondo State during these periods. This raises a critical concern: Are our leaders, in their pursuit of power, neglecting their primary responsibility of serving the public?
The people of Ondo State are suffering from various forms of disenfranchisement. Controversies surround the appointment of the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the establishment of 33 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs). These controversies suggest that resource allocation and opportunities within the state have been marred by disputes and favoritism.

Additionally, the people of Ondo State perceive themselves as underrepresented at the national level, with disputes over appointments and representation. This sense of marginalization exacerbates their frustration, as their voices seem drowned out in the national political discourse.
The causes of this predicament are multi-faceted. Unequal distribution of resources, political disagreements, and ineffective governance all contribute to the state’s woes. Historical factors, including the legacy of the slave trade, add complexity to the situation, demonstrating the lasting impact of historical injustices.
Crucially, there is a direct link between the Governor’s absence and the suffering of the people. The strained relationship between Governor Akeredolu and his deputy, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has disrupted governance, leading to reports of inadequate governance during the Governor’s illness.
The ongoing impeachment proceedings against Deputy Governor Aiyedatiwa add further complexity to this political landscape. Allegations of gross misconduct, abuse of office, disloyalty, and more have been raised, but amidst the murky waters of Nigerian politics, discerning the truth is challenging.
The outcome of these impeachment proceedings remains uncertain, leaving the people of Ondo State in a state of uncertainty and anxiety about their future.
Amidst this political turmoil, it is crucial to emphasize that the people of Ondo State deserve effective and transparent leadership. They deserve leaders who prioritize their well-being over personal interests and political rivalries. In light of Governor Akeredolu’s health challenges, it is imperative that he consider the greater good and, if necessary, transfer power to his deputy to ensure the continuity of governance.
In conclusion, the situation in Ondo State underscores the importance of ethical and responsible leadership in politics. It serves as a stark reminder that the welfare of the people should always be the paramount consideration of those in power. The people of Ondo State deserve a just and responsive government that works tirelessly to improve their lives and ensure their voices are heard in the corridors of power.