Ondo should be mourning stagnation at 50, not declaring public holiday – Sowore
Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has raised alarms regarding the lack of development in Ondo State, particularly under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. Sowore, who originates from Kiribo in Ese-Odo Local Government Area, criticized the state’s recent celebration of its 50th anniversary through declared public holidays. According to him, the occasion should warrant reflection and mourning over poor governance rather than festivities.
Sowore has labeled the state’s current condition as stagnant, claiming there is no developmental or renewal strategy to address critical issues. He argued, “It would be more fitting for Ondo State citizens to aid Governor Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa in proclaiming a day of mourning over poor governance rather than observing a public holiday for the state’s 50th anniversary.” He expressed disappointment in the lack of visible progress, stating that Ondo has become a mere spectacle devoid of tangible achievements. “Instead of milestones, citizens are offered pageantry; instead of progress, some physical dance performance,” he added.
He lamented the absence of refurbished schools, built bridges, completed roads, or new hospitals, noting that even security has seen no improvement. Instead, Sowore argued that the state is mired in stagnation while thuggery prevails, indicating a failure of governance. This damning critique presents a picture of Ondo State where commemorating a half-century of existence has been essentially reduced to superficial celebrations rather than a platform for genuine progress.
In response to Sowore’s assertions, Yomi Oyekan, an aide to Governor Aiyedatiwa and Senior Special Assistant, defended the administration. He contended that Sowore does not grasp the complexities of governance and accused him of constantly attacking constituted authorities. Oyekan remarked that running a state is more nuanced than social media commentary and criticized Sowore for his approach. He suggested that Sowore’s criticisms lack constructive insight and instead lean towards exaggerations that do not contribute to meaningful discourse regarding governance.
Oyekan said, “What’s more disappointing is that this comes from an Ondo son, someone who should understand the depth of our challenges.” He argued that Sowore’s sustained outrage could translate to irrelevance over time, implying that constant negativity might undermine his credibility as an activist.
Critics like Sowore hope for more from their leaders, demanding accountability and effective governance rather than celebratory displays that mask deeper issues. While Sowore accuses the Aiyedatiwa administration of failing to address the state’s pressing challenges, Oyekan’s defense emphasizes the complexities of governance and the necessity for more informed criticisms.
As Ondo State marks its 50th anniversary, the exchange highlights a stark division between those who feel let down by the governance and those who defend it, showcasing the ongoing struggle to bridge the gap between reality and the aspirations of the citizens. In light of the criticisms, the question remains: Can a path toward meaningful development be forged in a state where many believe stagnation prevails?
