Ondo 2024 guber poll not by right of ’emilokan’, group tells contestants

A group, the Ondo Redemption Front (ORF) has declared that the forthcoming November 16th, 2024 governorship election in Ondo State would not be business as usual, while all the contestants should not see the election as a right of ’emilokan’.

Addressing journalists on Thursday at the NUJ Press Centre, Akure, the Chairman of ORF, Ayodeji Ologun, who said the ‘Emilokan’ mindset would not work or be tolerated in the forthcoming election said the people of the state would not be swayed by mundane things that stems from propagandas but will be more concerned about the antecedents of the aspirants, their track records, character, record in public service and sign of empathy to the people they seek to govern.

According to him, the cornerstone of a prosperous Ondo State lies in the election of competent and visionary leadership. Ologun, who was accompanied by other members of the group said; “the 2024 Governorship election presents an opportunity for the people of Ondo State to choose leaders who will steer the state toward sustained growth and development.

The Ondo Redemption Front is committed to playing an active role in this process, advocating for transparency, fairness, and the election of leaders with the best interests of the state at heart.

“As a group, the Ondo Redemption Front is committed to ensuring that the state remains on a trajectory of progress, irrespective of the leadership changes. We are resolute in our determination to hold the Ondo State Government, now under the leadership of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, accountable for its actions and policies that impact the lives of the people.

“Our primary focus is on good governance and development. We believe that the people of Ondo State deserve leadership that prioritizes their welfare, infrastructure, education, healthcare, and overall well-being. We pledge to continually engage constructively with the government, offering our insights and recommendations to enhance governance and development initiatives.

“Accountability is key to good governance, and In tasking the new administration in Ondo state, on the need for public accountability, we wish to invite the attention of Governor Aiyedatiwa, to the raging issue, concerning the alleged financial mismanagement at Okitipupa Oil Palm PLC. Available reports from concerned staff and stakeholders in the company have raised concerns over suspicious withdrawal of funds running into millions of Naira among other financial irregularities allegedly being perpetrated by Mr Adewole Taiwo, the current Managing Director of the company. The withdrawals, allegedly made from the company’s accounts held with First Bank PLC (2022820206 and 2018659065), have sparked suspicion and a call for immediate intervention.

“We do ask the Ondo state government to immediately commission an inquiry into the activities of the company, while. In the immediate, freezing the bank account of the company, to prevent further frauds.

“As part of our commitment to fostering positive change, the Ondo Redemption Front is gearing up to mobilize massive citizens’ participation ahead of the 2024 Governorship election in Ondo State. Our objective is clear, to empower the people with information, encourage active engagement in the democratic process, and foster an environment where every citizen’s voice is heard.

“In our pursuit of a redeemed and transformed Ondo State, we recognize the importance of collaborating with various stakeholders, from civil society organizations to the media, and most importantly, the citizens themselves.

“In a few weeks from now, we shall be embarking on town hall meetings, community outreach, and dialogues, we aim to create a platform for open discussions on the issues that matter most to the people. We will bring the aspirants to face the people and talk about their plans and how much they understand Ondo State and its needs. We shall also be starting a quarterly radio and television program towards enlightening the people lest they be swayed by vote buyers and businessmen marauding as politicians without any iota of love for the people.

“In conclusion, the Ondo Redemption Front extends an invitation to all well-meaning citizens of Ondo State to join us on this journey. Together, we can build a state that thrives on good governance, development, and citizen participation. Let us work collectively to ensure that the future leadership of Ondo State serves the people with integrity, competence, and a deep sense of responsibility.”