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AYOTIDE 2024 Governorship Campaign Team, working for the emergence of Dr Victor Ayodeji Oritedi as the flag bearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the coming primaries in April says it has resumed campaign activities.
This is coming after suspension of all campaign activities due to the death of former late Gov. Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State.
This is contained in a statement made available to newsmen in Akure by Amb. Victor Oritedi.
He said he had used the period to reflect, regroup and plan for the exciting days ahead.
The full statement below! ……..Today marks one month since we suspended our campaign activities out of respect for the passing of our late governor, the esteemed Arakunri Rotimi Akeredolu SAN. During this period, we have collectively mourned his loss and honored his remarkable legacy.
I am thrilled to announce that we are now ready to resume our campaign with renewed vigor and determination.
We have taken this time to reflect, regroup, and plan for the exciting days ahead. Our commitment to our vision for a better future for our state remains unwavering, and we are more determined than ever to bring about positive change and progress.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all of you for your patience, understanding, and unwavering support during this challenging time. Your dedication to our cause is deeply appreciated, and we are eager to continue this journey with you by our side.
As we embark on this next phase of our campaign, we look forward to engaging with you, sharing our plans, and working together to build a brighter future for our state. Together, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve our shared goals.
Thank you once again for your steadfast support. Let’s move forward with optimism and determination as we work towards a better tomorrow for all.
Sincerely,
Dr. Victor Ayodeji Oritedi AYOTIDE 2024 Governorship Campaign Team
Nigerian students have been admonished to desist from all forms of violence or any act that is capable of damaging their image and that of the institution.
The Chairman, of the House Committee on Tertiary Institutions and Member representing Okitipupa Constituency 1, Ondo State House of Assembly Mr. Chris Ayebusiwa, stated this at Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH), Okitipupa, during the 2nd legislative Summit of the legislative Arm of the Student Union.
He reminded the students that at the end of the day, they would bear the certificate of the institution which is why it is important for them to make sure they defend the university in every way.
While delivering his lecture on the topic titled, “The Roles of Young Parliamentarians in Effective Governance”.
He said effective governance is a product of the right decisions. It is a function of judicious use of resources. It’s also about setting goals and making sure that the goals are achieved for the benefit of the people.
Noting that, “As parliamentarians, you must realize that by the virtue of your position, you are pillars upon which the institution rests, you must realize that your actions or in-actions will go a long way to shape the future of the great University”.
In whatever you say or do, you must make sure the welfare and well-being of the students are always your priority. The well-being of the students and the image of your university must be protected.
Therefore, you must see and utilize the platform as an opportunity for leadership preparation,” Ayebusiwa advised.
He assured them of his full support in any positive way as Chairman, of the House Committee on Tertiary Institutions, not just for the student body but also for the university.
Earlier, the first female speaker of the 6th parliament, Rt. Hon. Priscilla Bolarinwa, in her speech, appealed to Nigerian leaders to give youths the chance to show their leadership competence to the world.
She said It is time for the youths to be part of the decision-making process that either makes them or mar them”.
According to her, the Legislative arm of the government is saddled with the responsibility of making laws. A parliament is an assembly of the representatives of a political nation or people, often the supreme legislative authority.
“The inclusion of young parliamentarians helps in advancing the quality of our governing system, equality and equity will be achieved in a balanced ratio. It is believed that some endless possibilities and opportunities can be realized when all people are equally and fairly represented”
“In Africa’s populous country, Nigeria young people constitute about 70 percent of the population. Despite our large number, we the youth still face the challenge of being excluded from the governance spaces of the country such as the parliament”
“This puts efforts to strengthen democracy in the nation at risk of failure. Since early October 2020, protests and unrest have been witnessed in many parts of the nation. Nigerians particularly young people took to the street to demonstrate against human rights abuse, police brutality, and the status quo on matters of youth development and empowerment”
She, therefore challenged her fellow Nigerian youths to brace themselves for impact.
On the occasion, Mr. Ayebusiwa was presented with an Award of Honour for Excellent Leadership. Also, some parliamentarians were presented with different awards respectively.
The Chairman of Ilaje Leadership Forum, (citizens security council) Chief Wilson Ejeben, has donated project worth seven million Naira to Ilaje Local government area of Ondo state.
The project includes, the reconstruction and beautification of Alape roundabout (Tobacco Junction) Ugbonla/ Araromi road in Ilaje Local Government which was commissioned yesterday by the executive chairman of Ilaje LG, Mr Olamigoke Jatuase.
According to the donor, the project was said to be in honour of His Excellency Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu over his recent intervention that had resolved a long time incessant killings in Igbokoda, the headquarters of Ilaje Local Government.
During the commissioning, the Local government boss who was represented by his Vice, Mr Dickson Obele, appreciated the Chief Ejeben for giving back to Ilaje.
“I am deeply grateful for all Chief Ejeben has been doing in supporting the people of ilaje. This will be the second roundabout he has constructed in Ilaje LG, which had reduced the usual accident that used to have happened in the area”
“Apart from that, he has been empowering our youths in different aspects, through skill acquisitions training in fashion designing, barbing, makeup artiste just to mention a few”
“To my surprise, Chief Ejeben is never a politician or has an intention for such, but just feel like giving back to the community he had grown and achieved before he travelled out from the country. And he still remembers to come and give back to us. I appreciate him a lot, God will continue to protect him and be with him. “Jatuase prayed.
The council boss, therefore, called on other sons and daughters of Ilaje to sponge from the Chief, by giving back to their community, government can not do everything alone. The chairman emphasised.
Also speaking at the event, the Olu of Igbokoda, His royal majesty, Oba Afolabi Odidiomo, applauded the donor, and described him, as a rear gift to Ilaje.
“When I saw the video of the roundabout, I was surprised, and if not that I witnessed the commencement of the project I would doubt it if the roundabout is in Ilaje, it is just like the ones we are seeing at Ikeja Lekki. Am so happy with the project”
“It is not until you are collecting guns from criminals before you are concerned about securing our society, but it is about getting a solution to whatever thing that brings about the insecurity of lives and property. With this project, Chief Ejeben has safe lives and properties. A lot of accidents have occurred here when there was no roundabout.”
While giving him a royal blessing, the monarch noted that Chief Ejeben is never a politician, and still remember his source, he, therefore, advised the Ilaje people to learn from him.
Earlier, the donor, Chief Ejeben appreciated the state governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu for his effort toward bringing peace back to the ilaje community, also thanked everyone present at the event, and added that it has been his dream to give back to the society that made him who he is today.
“It is my dream to give back to the society that made me who I am today, I grew up in ilaje, and everything I am today was from Ilaje, therefore, after God, I give to Ilaje. I owe ilaje a lot because if not for them I wouldn’t have become who I am today.” Ejeben appreciated.
The chairman Ilaje leadership forum, noted that ilaje has given him a platform to learn as a teenager for free.
He urged the young people in Ilaje even if they are opportuned to be abroad not to forget their source because the government cannot do it alone. “Home is home” Ejeben said.
Chief Wilson Ejeben is a young prominent personality and business mogul in Delta State that has within the shortest time demonstrated the cardinal points of charity which include time, essence, talent and money.
Chief Augustine Ajofure on behalf of the Uhrobo community appreciated the founder for making them proud and a reference point in Ilaje community.
Dignitaries at the events are former LG boss of Ilaje, Mr Victor Ayenuro, former leader of the council, Mr Femi Akinlo, counsellor representing Ugbo ward 4, and Mr Asikomi Olasinbo, Mr Monday Akinyomi, from Mahin, Uhrobo group and security agencies.
The Publisher of Coastal Renaissance news, Comrade Taiwo Ilesanmi Gbamila has congratulated Comrade Niyi Majofodun on his new appointment as Zonal Public Relations Officer (PRO) of Niger Delta Security surveillance (NDSS)
Niger Delta Security Surveillance (NDSS) is a security outfit recognized and engaged by the Federal Government of Nigeria in collaboration with the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) saddled with the responsibility of combating the activities of illegal oil bunkering, pipeline vandalism, products adulteration, security of coastal waterways/creeks, refineries/Depots, Vessels/Barges and oil & gas infrastructures.
Comrade Niyi Majofodun who is also the Spokesman, Ondo state ex-militants from Ilaje Local Government was appointed and given a letter of employment by the authority of NDDS.
He was appointed the Zonal PRO of NDSS which covers Lagos, Ogun, Oyo and Kwara States.
The MD/CEO of Niger Delta Security and Surveillance (NDSS), Mr Ibifuro Jonah Finuma in a company with other National executives among whom are Mr Ozor-Ejike Chibike, National Secretary; Princess Tina, Zonal Coordinator; Hon. Kelly Erhijakpor, Zonal Chairman; Mr Olofe Oladele Akinola, Western Zonal Chairman and others gave him the appointment letter at the office headquarters in Port Harcourt, Rivers State recently.
The MD charged all the NDSS personnel to be more proactive in discharging their duties by putting an end to illegal activities of the oil bunkers and petroleum adulteration that can lead to economic sabotage of the oil and gas sector in the country.
In his remark, Comrade Niyi Majofodun appreciated the marvellous work of God in his life and also gave God the glory for availing him the privilege and opportunity to lead the Zonal media of the NDSS in the country. He further thanked God for giving him a divine promotion in all his endeavours.
He also appreciated all the leaders who stood by him to attain huge success among whom are Prince Poroye Biyi, Board Director Alpha 3D Company, Ondo State, Hon. Prince Diran Iyantan, Federal Commissioner of National Population Commission (NPC), Ondo State chapter, Barr. Olugbenga Edema, former OSOPADEC Chairman, Ondo State, Chief Job Omotuwa, National Head of Marine Operation of NDSS, Barr. Lawson Akintokun, Legal Adviser of NDSS, South West Zone, Ernest Akinro Olusegun Jones, Ondo State NDSS Supervisor, Hon. Taiwo Ilesanmi Gbamila, Publisher Coastal Renaissance news and other stakeholders.
Majofodun assured the Federal Government of total cooperation of the NDSS in collaboration with other security operatives in bringing the culprits and perpetrators of illegal oil bunkering and petroleum products adulteration to book and subsequently face the wrath of the law.
He finally assured the leadership of NDSS and other stakeholders of his total loyalty and effective service delivery.
The Chairman Akure South Local Government Area, Hon. Gbenga Olaniyi has charged employers of corps’ members at all levels to always prioritize the welfare of the corps in order to achieve optimum performance.
Olaniyi stated this at this year corps’ employers workshop which took place at St. Mathias College, Akure.
Corps’members employers workshop is an annual event that takes place simultaneously across the 36 States of Nigeria and the FCT.
The theme of this year workshop is ” Optimizing The NYSC/CORPS’Employers Partnership For National Development In The Context Of The New Normal”.
The Chairman represented by his chief of staff, Hon. Olaniyi Abiodun stressed that the statutory welfare of the corps’ members which includes accommodation, security and financial benefits should be adequate attention as a way of motivating the corps .
In his own remarks, the Director General NYSC, Brig. Gen Shuaibu Ibrahim represented by Chief. Tunde Fadairo said NYSC was established to foster National Unity, Cooperation and Integration among Nigeria youths with a mandate to train and empower the graduants for economic growth and development through various skills acquisition and community development.
He however admonished employers not to compromise the objectives of the scheme by always reporting any wrong doing of the corps’members.
In their contributions, some of the employers took time to ask numerous questions bothering welfare, security and well being of the corps’ members where answers and possible solutions were proffers by State Coordinator of the NYSC, Mrs. Victoria Anne.
Nigeria’s democratic space has once again been animated by controversy—this time surrounding the leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the subsequent actions of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Predictably, accusations have emerged, with critics alleging bias, interference, and political manipulation.
Yet beneath the noise lies a more fundamental issue—one that demands sober reflection rather than emotional reaction: Are we holding INEC accountable for a failure, or for fulfilling its legal obligation?
The Legal and Procedural Questions
The facts, as presented, raise troubling procedural and legal inconsistencies within the ADC itself.
First, the question of authority: if a National Chairman resigns, can he continue to act on behalf of the party days or weeks after that resignation? In principle, the answer is no. Once resignation takes effect, the authority attached to that office ceases, except where there is a clearly defined transitional arrangement. Any official correspondence made outside that framework inevitably raises questions about legitimacy.
Second, the issue of delayed communication. If, as claimed, a key party official resigned in May but the electoral body was only notified in July, such delay undermines the credibility of the process. Political parties are expected to maintain transparency and promptly communicate leadership changes to INEC. A two-month gap is not just a procedural lapse—it opens the door to suspicion, contradiction, and potential manipulation.
Third, the matter of succession. In most party constitutions, including those of major Nigerian political parties, the Deputy National Chairman assumes leadership in an acting capacity upon the resignation of the Chairman. If, at the time of the Chairman’s resignation, the Deputy had not formally stepped down, then the line of succession should have been clear and automatic.
These are not trivial technicalities. They go to the heart of organizational order, legal compliance, and institutional credibility. INEC and the Limits of Its Role It is important to restate a basic principle of electoral governance: INEC is not an arbitrator of internal party politics. Its role is administrative and regulatory, not discretionary.
The Commission acts based on: Official communications from political parties Party constitutions and established procedures Binding court orders where disputes have been adjudicated To expect INEC to go beyond these parameters is to invite arbitrariness into a system that is meant to be governed by law.
Indeed, a contradiction has emerged in the public discourse. If INEC had ignored the documents submitted to it or refused to comply with a court directive, it would have been accused of bias or dereliction.
Yet, by acting in accordance with its mandate, it now faces the same accusations. This inconsistency suggests that the issue may not be INEC’s actions, but rather dissatisfaction with the outcomes those actions produced.
The Danger of Sentiment Over Substance
Democracy thrives on the rule of law, not on selective outrage. When legal processes are interpreted through the lens of political convenience, institutions are unfairly weakened and public trust is eroded.
The ADC leadership dispute is, by all indications, rooted in internal mismanagement—contradictions in communication, questionable timing, and procedural ambiguities. These are issues that should be addressed within the party framework or resolved through the courts, not projected onto INEC as institutional failure.
Young Nigerians, in particular, must resist the temptation to adopt narratives that prioritize sentiment over substance. Holding institutions accountable is essential—but such accountability must be grounded in facts, law, and consistency.
Conclusion
As Nigeria moves steadily toward another electoral cycle, the strength of its democracy will depend not just on the actions of its institutions, but on the fairness with which those actions are judged.
INEC’s responsibility is clear: to uphold the law, reflect legally recognized leadership structures, and maintain regulatory order. Political parties, on their part, must ensure internal coherence, transparency, and adherence to due process.
Democracy cannot function where the rule of law is applied selectively or discarded when inconvenient. If Nigeria is to make meaningful progress, both institutions and citizens must remain anchored in principle—not perception.
The Ondo State Coordinator of Tinubu/Datiwa Half a Million Walk, Hon. Kehinde Akinrotoye (Bonsue), has congratulated the Deputy Governor of the state, Olayide Adelami, on the occasion of his birthday.
Akinrotoye, in a statement signed and made available to newsmen by his media aide, Adeseun Adetayo in Akure, the state capital described Adelami as a seasoned administrator and committed public servant, noting his contributions to governance and development in Ondo State.
He commended the Deputy Governor’s wealth of experience, humility, and loyalty to leadership, emphasizing his role in supporting policies aimed at improving the welfare of citizens.
The immediate past Senior Special Assistant to the Ondo State Governor on Sports also praised Adelami’s dedication to teamwork and stability in government, describing him as a dependable deputy who has continued to strengthen the administration’s agenda.
According to him, “Adelami is a very dependable Deputy whose dedication to good governance in the state is measurable.
His previous role in the National Assembly is a testament to his administrative competence. I celebrate you today and wish you many happy returns of the day in good health.”
The Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has been commended for his role as Grand Patron of the Tinubu/Datiwa Half-Million Walk and other pro-Tinubu support groups in the state.
The Ondo State Coordinator of the Tinubu/Datiwa Half a Million Walk, Hon. Kehinde Akinrotoye (Bonsue), made this known during an interview with journalists in Akure, the state capital.
Akinrotoye, the immediate past Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Sports, expressed delight at the governor’s decision to identify with the Tinubu/Datiwa movement as its Grand Patron.
According to him, as the number one citizen of the state, the governor is naturally positioned to lead and support all groups working towards the second-term bid of President Bola Tinubu in Ondo State.
While appreciating the people of Ondo State for coming out en masse during the just-concluded Half-Million Walk, Akinrotoye disclosed that the Tinubu/Datiwa support structure would be expanded across all 18 local government areas of the state and extended to other South-West states, including Lagos, Oyo, Osun, Ogun, and Ekiti.
He further explained that the Half a Million Walk would be staged across the three senatorial districts and beyond as part of efforts to mobilise grassroots support for the president’s re-election. The initiative, he said, was formally launched in Akure.
Plans are underway to extend the mobilisation to the Southern and Northern senatorial districts, federal constituencies, 203 political wards, and 3,933 polling units, with coordinators to be inaugurated across the state in due course.
Akinrotoye added that the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, led by Governor Aiyedatiwa, has approved the statewide rollout of the walk ahead of the January 2027 general elections.
“We will continue to promote the achievements of President Bola Tinubu through the Tinubu/Datiwa support group to enable us achieve our target of 95 percent of the votes,” he said.
The Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Ile-Oluji, Dr. Ademola Iyanda Ebeloku, has felicitated with Christians across Nigeria on the occasion of this year’s Easter celebration, urging them to embrace unity, love and peaceful coexistence.
In a goodwill message made available to journalists, Ebeloku congratulated the Christian community within the institution and across the country, describing Easter as a period that reflects sacrifice, love and redemption.
The Rector noted that the commemoration of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ serves as a reminder of the need for Nigerians to rise above challenges, strengthen their faith and promote unity both as a people and as a nation.
He called on members of the Polytechnic community and Nigerians at large to abide by the teachings of Jesus Christ, particularly the golden rule of loving one’s neighbour as oneself, stressing that this would help sustain peace and harmony in homes, workplaces and the society.
Ebeloku further urged citizens to use the festive period to build bridges of unity, compassion and service, while celebrating in moderation.
He wished Christians a joyful Easter celebration, praying for God’s blessings and divine salvation for all.
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has reiterated the resolve of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state to deliver one million votes for Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other party candidates in the 2027 general elections.
Aiyedatiwa made the declaration on Wednesday while leading a “Tinubu/Datiwa Half-Million Walk” in Akure in support of the president’s re-election bid.
The walk, which commenced at the Ondo State Government House and terminated at the state sports complex, was organised by a pro-Tinubu support group “TinubuDatiwa”, as part of ongoing mobilisation efforts across the state.
The TinubuDatiwa event was spearheaded by the former Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Sports, Kehinde Akinrotoye, as part of strategic groundwork ahead of the next general elections.
Addressing participants, the governor described the walk as one of several coordinated activities by pro-Tinubu groups aimed at galvanising support across the state. He noted that, beyond its political significance, the initiative also served as a health walk to promote physical wellbeing.
“This is one in a series of programmes by Tinubu support groups. Many of such groups are actively mobilising across the state for the re-election of our president.
“As the foremost patron of these groups, it is important that I identify with them and join in this walk,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa expressed satisfaction with the large turnout, which include participants like government officials, civil servants, civil society organisations, artisan groups, and security agencies.
He added that the strong early morning participation reflected growing awareness of the importance of physical exercise for overall wellbeing, including mental alertness and spiritual balance.
The governor stressed that the real task lies beyond public rallies, urging supporters to return to their wards, polling units, and local government areas to intensify grassroots mobilisation.
“Our role here is coordination, but the real work is at the grassroots. Everyone must return to their units, wards, and local governments to continue mobilisation. “By February 2027, our target is nothing less than one million votes,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa also addressed recently disengaged political aides, commending their loyalty and participation in the march.
He assured them that the ongoing restructuring process would not sideline committed individuals, hinting at fresh appointments.
“You remained committed even after leaving office. That loyalty will not be ignored. Previously, we had about 650 aides, but the plan now is to appoint 1,000. Many of you will still have roles to play,” he assured.
The governor further noted that some positions remain critical to governance, adding that certain individuals would continue to play indispensable roles. He also commended the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Segun Omoyofunmi, for his contributions to the success of the event.
Marking the beginning of a new month, Aiyedatiwa offered prayers for participants, urging them to complement physical activities with spiritual devotion through fasting and prayer. He expressed optimism that April would bring good health, renewed strength, and prosperity.
Earlier, Omoyofunmi said the massive turnout demonstrated strong support for the president’s re-election, expressing confidence that the state would deliver overwhelmingly under the governor’s leadership.
Also speaking, Akinrotoye explained that the walk was organised to mobilise support for President Tinubu across the 18 local government areas of the state.
According to him, the event was a signal to residents and observers that Governor Aiyedatiwa is firmly committed to Tinubu’s re-election.
“President Tinubu must continue the good work he has been doing for this country,” he said, while appreciating members of the organising committee and participants for making the event a success.
He added that the mobilisation campaign would be extended to senatorial districts, federal constituencies, wards, and polling units across the state.
Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, will on Wednesday, April 1, lead an estimated 500,000 residents of the state in a walking exercise tagged “Tinubu/Datiwa Half a Million Walk.”
The walk is scheduled to commence at the Ondo State Government House in Alagbaka by 8: am and it will be terminate at the State Sports Complex in Akure, the state capital.
This was disclosed in a statement issued to newsmen by the former Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Sports, Hon. Kehinde Akinrotoye (Bonsue).
Akinrotoye, who serves as the state coordinator of the Tinubu/Datiwa Half a Million Walk, said the event is aimed at showcasing the achievements of President Bola Tinubu, as reflected through the leadership of Governor Aiyedatiwa.
He noted that President Tinubu has recorded notable strides in governance through initiatives such as the student loan scheme, tax reforms, and the coastal highway project, which passes through Ondo State, among others.
According to him, “Politically, Ondo State has never had it so good in the past, like we are doing under the leadership of Dr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
With three ministers from the state, we are justified in leading the process for the seamless re-election of the hardworking President, Bola Tinubu.”
Akinrotoye described Governor Aiyedatiwa as a “silent achiever,” highlighting his administration’s commitment to prompt payment of workers’ salaries, regular promotions, road construction across the 18 local government areas, improved healthcare delivery, and an uninterrupted academic calendar.
He also commended the governor for effectively managing the affairs of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.
“I commend the Governor for the manner in which he has managed the affairs of the party. We had a peaceful congress in the state without crisis, and this is due to his leadership quality,” he added.
Oil-producing communities in Ilaje Ugboland, Ondo State, have commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving their inclusion in pipeline and oil and gas facilities surveillance operations.
This was contained in a statement signed by Prince Adejugba Ogundere, Chairman of the Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas (HOSTCOM), Ondo State chapter, who described the move as a boost to security and community participation in the Niger Delta.
Read full text:
OPEN LETTER TO THE PRESIDENT, BOLA AHMED TINUBU, GCFR
His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria State House, Abuja.
Your Excellency Sir,
APPRECIATION FOR THE INCLUSION OF ILAJE UGBOLAND IN PIPELINE AND OIL & GAS FACILITIES SURVEILLANCE OPERATIONS
We write on behalf of the peace-loving and resource-hosting people of Ilaje Ugboland, Ondo State, to express our profound gratitude and appreciation for your visionary leadership and commitment to inclusive governance, particularly as demonstrated in the recent inclusion of Ilaje communities in pipeline and oil & gas facilities surveillance operations.
Your Excellency, this thoughtful decision reflects your administration’s deep understanding of the strategic importance of host communities in safeguarding critical national assets. It is a clear demonstration of your resolve to promote equity, security, and sustainable development across the Niger Delta region.
We also wish to commend Tantita Security Services for its professionalism and collaborative approach in working with host communities. Their engagement has not only strengthened surveillance architecture but has also fostered trust, cooperation, and a renewed sense of responsibility among our people.
Ilaje Ugboland remains a vital oil and gas corridor within the Niger Delta, hosting key offshore and onshore assets that contribute significantly to Nigeria’s energy security. The inclusion of our communities in surveillance operations is both timely and strategic, as it leverages our deep knowledge of the terrain, waterways, and local dynamics to enhance protection efforts.
This initiative is well aligned with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which recognizes host communities as critical stakeholders in the sustainability and security of oil and gas infrastructure. By integrating Ilaje Ugboland into this framework, your administration has further reinforced the principles of accountability, ownership, and community participation.
The benefits of this inclusion are already evident:
Strengthened protection of oil and gas facilities Reduction in vandalism and illegal activities Improved intelligence gathering and response Enhanced peace and stability within the region
Your Excellency, this action has renewed hope among our people and reaffirmed our confidence in your leadership. It stands as a model of how government, private security operators, and host communities can work together for national progress.
OUR COMMITMENT
In return, we assure Your Excellency of our unwavering commitment to:
Protecting all oil and gas infrastructure within Ilaje Ugboland Supporting government policies and security initiatives Maintaining peace, stability, and cooperation across our communities
CONCLUSION
Your Excellency, we sincerely thank you for this landmark decision and for your continued dedication to inclusive governance and national development. We also appreciate Tantita Security Services for recognizing the value of community partnership in achieving lasting security.
Please accept the assurances of our highest regards.
Yours faithfully,
Prince Adejugba Ogundere Chairman: HOSTCOM Ondo State Chapter
“Trust is not built overnight; it is cultivated over years of consistent dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment. With Prince (Barr) Lawson Akintokun, fnis, representing Ilaje Constituency II in the Ondo State House of Assembly, the future looks promising. His proven track record speaks volumes about his character and leadership prowess.
As we look towards 2027 and beyond, it’s clear that maturity, capability, and agility are essential qualities for qualitative and quantitative representation. Prince Lawson Akintokun embodies these virtues, making him an exemplary figure in Ondo State.
Let’s rally behind leaders who demonstrate vision, wisdom, and a deep understanding of the people’s needs. Support maturity, capability, and agility – the hallmarks of true leadership.
May this moment inspire reflection, motivation, and collective progress.
In an era where political leadership is often judged by spectacles rather than the substance of delivery, the administration of His Excellency, Dr Lucky Orimisan Ayedatiwa stands out for its deliberate, methodical, and quietly transformative approach. One year into his stewardship of Ondo State, the forms of a governance style are becoming increasingly visible. We can see continuity, inclusiveness, and institutional respect.
The Yoruba saying, “Arise l’arika, arika ni baba iregun,” is a multi-layered adage often used to discuss legacy, gratitude, and accountability. In one-year of Ayedatiwa’s administration the people of Ondo state can see and count what he has done and what he is doing.
Perhaps, we can start counting from his unwavering focus on continuity. In a political culture where new administrations often abandon inherited projects, Ayedatiwa has taken a different path. By prioritising the completion of projects initiated by his predecessor, Rotimi Akeredolu, he has proven to be the biggest legacy of Arakunrin. This commitment signals institutional maturity and fiscal responsibility.
Governor Ayedatiwa’s determination to develop Akure into a modern state capital has also not gone unnoticed. His urban renewal initiatives, infrastructure upgrades, and focus on planning signal a desire to transform Akure into a hub that reflects its status as a state capital. A modern capital is a combination of aesthetics, functionality, and economic vitality. He is bringing all of these to bear on what is definitely a broader developmental agenda.
Unlike governance models that concentrate resources in urban centres, Ayedatiwa has demonstrated a balanced commitment to all 18 local government areas of the state. From road construction/rehabilitation to health and educational interventions, there is a discernible effort to ensure that development is not an exclusive preserve of a few urban enclaves but a shared experience across communities. The grassroots are feeling the impact of this administration.
Taking the reckoning beyond the formal structures of governance, we also have the deep respect for traditional institutions to count. Across the state, Ayedatiwa has engaged traditional rulers with respect. Recognising the functionality of traditional authority, he has consistently strengthened governance at the grassroots level. The brand-new Toyota SUVs he recently presented to traditional rulers have enhanced their welfare and mobility. The vehicles have also boosted their capacity to maintain peace and security in their domains.
Another defining feature of his governance is a firm commitment to due process in the award of contracts. At a time when concerns about transparency and accountability remain central to public discourse, Ayedatiwa’s insistence on procedural integrity sends a strong message about the sanctity of public resources. Contracts are subjected to scrutiny, competitive processes are encouraged, and the emphasis on value-for-money reflects a leadership mindful of both present needs and future obligations.
In addition to managing internal resources prudently, the governor has shown a forward-looking commitment to sourcing external funding for transformational projects like the Port Ondo. By courting development partners and exploring alternative financing mechanisms, he is positioning the state to undertake large-scale infrastructure and social investments that might otherwise remain out of reach.
Without noise, roads and water schemes are being completed, hospitals and health centers are equipped, agribusiness is being empowered to increase food supply, thousands of teachers are recruited and backlog of pension arrears paid, schools are being renovated, security is enhanced by recruitment of more personnel into Amotekun corps and distribution of utility vehicles to security agencies, institutions are being strengthened, and governance is becoming more accountable. Taken together, these strides point to a leadership style that places steady progress over and above spectacle.
As Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa enters the second year of his administration, the foundations laid in the first-year offer reason for whole-hearted optimism. If one year offers this much, the second year is bound to deliver more tangible outcomes. For a people so used to expectations being dashed, the experience of the last one year suggests that quiet and methodical leadership can indeed deliver enduring progress.
Prince Lawson Akintokun, fisn is a Special Assistant to the Governor on Election Matters. He writes from Igbokoda.
A concerned stakeholder in Ondo State, Adebo Adegboye David, has commended Governor Lucky Orimisan Ayedatiwa for his calm and composed handling of the recent security challenges confronting parts of the state, particularly incidents linked to kidnappers.
In an open letter made available to the public, Adegboye noted that despite mounting pressure and criticism from residents, the governor has demonstrated patience and resilience, qualities he described as hallmarks of effective leadership during difficult times.
The stakeholder specifically lauded the recent deployment of joint security forces to the Imafon-Ala axis, revealing that over fifteen operational vehicles were sighted in the area. He described the move as a strong and reassuring response, noting that it sends a clear signal that the government is prioritising the safety of its citizens.
While acknowledging the effort, Adegboye stressed that the security strategy must go beyond physical deployment to include modern technological support. According to him, the difficult terrain of forests and remote bushes in the affected areas makes it challenging for ground patrols alone to achieve optimal results.
He advocated the use of surveillance drones and aerial patrol helicopters to monitor forested regions and uncover criminal hideouts. He added that areas such as the Imafon–Ala corridor have long been suspected as operational routes for criminal elements, making aerial surveillance a necessary intervention.
Adegboye also called for the effective utilisation of telecommunications infrastructure, noting that communication towers in areas where ransom negotiations have occurred could provide critical intelligence. He explained that, with proper legal and technical processes, such data could help security agencies track criminal networks and identify patterns.
In addition, he recommended the deployment of monitoring drones in high-risk zones, particularly farming communities, to restore confidence among residents who have become fearful of returning to their farmlands.
The stakeholder further urged the state government to strengthen collaboration with local hunters, vigilante groups, and community leaders, emphasising that their knowledge of the terrain and local activities could significantly enhance intelligence gathering and response efforts.
He also proposed the establishment of a structured citizen reporting system that would enable residents to share information about suspicious movements, including images and location details, in a safe and coordinated manner.
Highlighting the importance of visible security presence, Adegboye suggested regular joint patrols in communities surrounded by forests, supported with adequate patrol vehicles and personnel.
Drawing from his personal experience during his service year in Maiduguri, he noted that a high ratio of security personnel to civilian presence created both deterrence and public confidence, a model he believes could be replicated in Ondo State.
Adegboye concluded by expressing optimism in the steps already taken by the Ayedatiwa administration, offering prayers for wisdom and strength for the governor as he continues efforts to address the state’s security concerns.
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