Ayedatiwa! The Game Is Not Over
The recent political developments in Edo and Ondo states have once again underscored the deepening cracks in Nigeria’s democratic fabric. As the dust settles from the contentious Edo elections, where the All Progressives Congress (APC) allegedly rigged the polls in favor of their candidate, the spotlight now shifts to Ondo, where Lucky Ayedatiwa, seeks to hold onto the reins of power. But as history has shown us in Ondo, this is no ordinary state. Ayedatiwa would do well to remember: the game is far from over.
In Edo, the APC’s victory has been clouded by accusations of electoral manipulation. Observers noted irregularities in voting patterns and ballot tampering, leading to widespread discontent among the electorate, particularly the supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). While the APC celebrates their ‘victory,’ the anger simmering beneath the surface reveals a much larger truth – the Nigerian people are growing weary of electoral malpractices and unaccountable governance.
But if Ayedatiwa believes that the Edo scenario will easily repeat itself in Ondo, he is sorely mistaken. The people of Ondo are not mere spectators in their state’s future, and the lessons of history are not forgotten.
Since Ayedatiwa emerged as Governor following Akeredolu’s death, the people of Ondo have watched in frustration as promises have turned into disappointments. Not a single meaningful capital project has been undertaken, leaving critical sectors like infrastructure, education, and healthcare in dire straits. The intervention funds from the Federal Government, meant to alleviate the economic challenges in the state, have vanished without trace, and the government has failed to offer any reasonable explanation for their disappearance.
Instead, Ayedatiwa has been more preoccupied with securing his political future, focusing on the upcoming elections rather than the pressing needs of the state. His campaign machinery is running at full throttle while the state’s progress stalls. This blatant disregard for governance in favor of political ambition is not sitting well with the highly educated and politically conscious people of Ondo.
Ondo is not just any state. Its people are known for their education, their critical thinking, and their unwillingness to accept mediocrity. The people of Ondo demand more than empty promises and surface-level rhetoric; they demand transparency, results, and accountability.
Ayedatiwa must not forget that Ondo has a history of upending expectations. It was in this very state that the Labour Party (LP) and Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, against all odds and despite enormous federal influence, won the governorship elections. Mimiko’s victory was a testament to the fact that no amount of external pressure or influence can undermine the will of the people when they are united in purpose.
Ayedatiwa must recognize that Ondo indigenes are not swayed by cheap politicking or shallow development promises. The people are watching, questioning every naira spent, every decision made. Ayedatiwa cannot hide behind party slogans or use the might of the APC to rig his way to power. The legacy of leaders is measured by their achievements and the tangible impact they leave on the lives of the people. So far, Ayedatiwa has failed to leave a positive mark on Ondo, and time is running out.
Ayedatiwa’s lack of capacity to lead is becoming increasingly evident. Beyond the failure to embark on critical development projects, his administration lacks the vision and strategic direction necessary to move Ondo forward. Leadership is not just about maintaining the status quo or clinging to power; it’s about innovative thinking, bold decision-making, and a genuine commitment to serving the people.
Ayedatiwa’s current trajectory suggests a leader more interested in political survival than in the betterment of the state. This is a dangerous gamble, especially in a state where the people have historically rejected complacency and mediocrity.
If Ayedatiwa believes that rigging, as allegedly done in Edo, will save him, he is mistaken. The people of Ondo know better, and they will not be silenced or cheated. They have seen the tricks before, and they will not be fooled again.
Ondo’s educated electorate is keenly aware of what is at stake, and they will demand answers. They will not rest until they see the proper use of state resources and real progress in areas that matter to their livelihoods. They will not tolerate a governor who is more focused on his campaign than on governing.
Ayedatiwa may think he has time to correct course, but the window is rapidly closing. The people of Ondo are watching, and their patience is wearing thin. He should remember the lesson of Mimiko’s victory: federal might and political games can only go so far. In the end, it is the people who hold the power, and they will exercise it when the time comes.
The game is not over, and it will not be over until the people of Ondo say it is. Ayedatiwa must refocus on the real issues facing the state and start delivering results. Ondo indigenes will not be swayed by mere campaign promises or political theatrics; they want real change, real progress, and real accountability.
The future of Ondo belongs to its people, and Ayedatiwa cannot afford to forget that. His time in office will be judged by the legacy he leaves, and as it stands, that legacy is woefully inadequate. The people are ready to speak, and when they do, Ayedatiwa may discover that the game has only just begun.
Peoplesmind
Otunba Desmond Awoyo