The Imade Development Association (IDA), a socio-cultural group, has urged the Ondo state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, to appoint a deputy from Owo as a means of compensating for the loss of their esteemed son, Rotimi Akeredolu. The group, consisting of Chairman Segun Ogunbadeniyi, Secretary Femi Fadaisi, and Publicity Secretary Julius Adesola, expressed deep concern over Akeredolu’s demise and cautioned against actions that might further divide the populace along ethnic and political lines.
Ogunbadeniyi emphasized the strong interest of the Owo ethnic group in presenting a candidate for the Deputy governor position. He underscored the need to safeguard Owo’s interests following Akeredolu’s passing, highlighting that any deviation from the joint ticket of Owo/Ilaje until February 2025 would be considered unfair and could lead to political division.
The IDA leaders stressed the importance of promoting peace and unity in the state, asserting that the recent conflicts had polarized the All Progressive Congress (APC), the legislative arm of the government, and the general population. They called upon Aiyedatiwa to prioritize initiatives fostering unity and prosperity, recognizing the sacrifices made by Owo for the Yoruba nation and Ondo State.
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The group advocated for empathy, respect, and transparency in addressing the prevailing situation, emphasizing that any attempt to alter the existing mandate would be akin to a terrorist attack on Owo. They put forward a list of prominent Owo indigenes, including Hon. Niran-Sule Akinsuyi, Hon. Oluwole Ogunmolasuyi, Mr. Zach Adetula, and Chief Jamiu Ekungba, as deserving candidates for the Deputy Governorship slot.
Ogunbadeniyi argued that selecting from this list would be a fair deal for all stakeholders, honoring the late governor and maintaining the integrity of the joint ticket crafted by Akeredolu and Aiyedatiwa. Acknowledging the delicate nature of political equations, the group cautioned against perceived unfair treatment, highlighting the potential for tension, division, and mistrust among different groups in the state.
In conclusion, the IDA urged Governor Aiyedatiwa to be mindful of the consequences of his actions and address the concerns of the people, emphasizing the importance of transparent and inclusive decision-making to ensure a united and prosperous future for Ondo State. The group’s plea reflects a collective call for harmony and fairness in navigating the complexities of political transitions.
