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ONDO PDP AND THE MIRAGE OF A FAILED GOVERNMENT
By Allen Sowore, Esq
On Monday, 15 December 2025, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa commenced a Thank-You Tour across the 18 Local Government Areas of Ondo State to express appreciation for the support and trust reposed in his administration by the people.
Beyond gratitude, the tour serves as a deliberate platform for direct engagement with citizens, enabling the administration to assess community needs, receive feedback, and evaluate the practical impact of the ‘OUR EASE’ Agenda. This approach reflects the Governor’s commitment to inclusive governance and continuous dialogue with the people, consistent with democratic best practices.
In any democratic setting, public policies and governmental actions will naturally attract differing perspectives. Such diversity of opinion is both expected and healthy. However, it is important that discussions around governance remain guided by facts, fairness, and a shared commitment to the progress of Ondo State. In this spirit, it is appropriate to clarify key areas of governance and public service delivery that have been raised in recent public discourse.
Security and Public Safety
The foremost responsibility of government, as articulated in Section 14 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is the protection of lives and property. Over the past years, Ondo State has made measurable progress in strengthening its security framework.
The administration has provided over 50 utility vehicles to security agencies and recently commissioned a modern Command and Control Centre, as well as a Training Auditorium for the Ondo State Security Network Agency (Amotekun).
Similarly, the governor has approved the recruitment of additional 500 officers. These investments, alongside improved remuneration for Amotekun operatives, underscore the administration’s resolve to support those tasked with safeguarding lives and communities.
Education
Education remains central to the state’s development strategy. Ondo State continues to provide safe transportation for pupils and students, including school shuttle buses and marine transport for riverine communities.
The recruitment of over 2,000 teachers has helped address staffing gaps in public schools. In tertiary education, institutions such as Adekunle Ajasin University, the University of Medical Sciences, Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, and Rufus Giwa Polytechnic continue to receive support in infrastructure, learning facilities, and student welfare. Regular payment of bursaries and scholarships further demonstrates the administration’s commitment to human capital development.
Health
Health care delivery has witnessed notable improvements. On 3 June 2025, the Governor commissioned the upgraded Central Medical Stores in Akure—a Pharma-grade warehouse designed to ensure the safe and efficient storage of medicines and health commodities.
With support from relevant agencies, the facility now serves nearly 600 public health institutions across the state, ensuring consistent access to quality and affordable medications. Additional initiatives include recruitment and training of health workers, facility upgrades, improved entry conditions for medical professionals, and strengthened coordination among health sector institutions.
A few weeks ago, the government boosted the State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System with new ambulance vehicles statewide.
Infrastructure Development
Infrastructure development remains a visible pillar of the administration’s agenda. Several road projects across the state have been completed, while major road dualisation and reconstruction works are ongoing across all three senatorial districts.
Strategic planning has also focused on improving connectivity between Akure and surrounding towns, as well as enhancing access in riverine communities through the construction of walkways and landing jetties. These interventions aim to support economic activity, safety, and ease of movement for residents.
Judiciary and Rule of Law
The administration recognizes that effective governance depends on a strong justice system. The ongoing construction of a modern Judiciary Village in Alagbaka reflects this understanding. Complementary reforms—including expansion of court facilities, recruitment of judicial personnel, and support for prison decongestion—are intended to improve access to justice and strengthen the rule of law.
Workers’ Welfare and Economic Management
Workers’ welfare has remained a priority through prompt salary payments, settlement of gratuity arrears, and improved financial discipline. The significant reduction of the state’s domestic debt has enhanced Ondo State’s fiscal stability and capacity for long-term planning.
Across sectors—education, health, agriculture, administration, and the judiciary—recruitment efforts continue to strengthen service delivery. The revitalisation of the Owena Multipurpose Dam further reflects the administration’s focus on sustainable infrastructure with long-term economic benefits.
Governance is ultimately a continuous process of building institutions, delivering services, and earning public trust. While perspectives may differ, the shared objective remains the advancement of Ondo State and the well-being of its people.
The Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa administration remains committed to transparent leadership, inclusive engagement, and steady progress. History will assess these efforts not by rhetoric, but by their lasting impact on the lives of citizens.
Allen Sowore, Esq
Special Adviser to the Ondo State Governor
(Communication & Strategy)
16 December, 2025
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