By Segun Omojuwa
Recently, discussions have become rampant in the political space about the eligibility or otherwise of the executive Governor of Ondo State, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, fca, to seek re-election at the expiration of his on-going tenure. The sheer volume of time and energy being dissipated on this conversation is so alarming in the camp of opposing politicians for unsalutary reasons. Proponents of this narrative believe that the most expedient way to ascend to the seat of governor in Ondo State is to first eliminate Governor Aiyedatiwa from the equation! For them it is inconsequential that the Governor, who exhibits no desperation for power, has vehemently dismissed these fabrications in numerous media engagements.
However, astute observers can readily discern the machinations embedded in this public discourse. The orchestrations stemmed from a palpable anxiety regarding the Governor’s swift consolidation of influence within the political landscape of the Sunshine State, particularly following the record-breaking, free, fair, and credible gubernatorial election of November 16, 2024, in which he achieved a resounding victory across all 18 Local Governments in the State. This unprecedented triumph was divinely facilitated after a grueling contest against fourteen other aspirants in the preceding primaries of the All Progressives Congress. The consequence for Aiyedatiwa, is for politicians not comfortable with his growing influence is to seek to put him in check in LESS THAN ONE YEAR into his 4-year tenure! The other plot is the deliberate creation of a significant distraction, aimed at diverting Governor Aiyedatiwa’s attention from governance; a strategy he has adeptly countered through the commendable fulfillment of his electoral promises across the Sunshine State.
The foregoing narratives elucidate why certain political interest groups have developed acute anxiety, escalating to a level detrimental to both governance and democracy.The conspiracy is so conspicuous that even if Governor Aiyedatiwa were to walk on water, his political adversaries would accuse him of stirring dust! It is a relentless mission to remain oblivious of the Governor’s commendable achievements in office. Certainly, it will be easier for a carmel to pass through the eye of a niddle than for this group to acknowledge the myriad positive initiatives undertaken by his administration, which span from road construction and urbanization to social welfare programmes, the revitalization of hospitals and rural health centers, massive employment across various sectors, empowerment of women and youth, unprecedented investment drives, enhanced security (in spite of isolated breaches that are being addressed) and much more.
Ironically, Governor Aiyedatiwa did not personally approach the court to contest his own eligibility for re-election. He did not ask the court, suo motu, to interprete the constitution. In all the recent media engagements, he maintained that his political traducers did by taking him to court in spite of his constitutional immunity as an incumbent Governor. Here are his own words: “I have never at any time declared to the public that I’m going to contest an election, having just been sworn in about a year ago. I did not approach the court to seek eligibility to contest election” Infact, having just spent one year out of his constitutional four-year mandate, widely bestowed on him by the electorate, he is only focused on fulfilling his covenant of 7- pillar development agenda as encapsulated in the OUR EASE initiative. Why is it that the Governor’s opponents would have none of this? Why the hoopla?
Globally, it is not uncommon to respond to legal actions initiated against oneself by another party, especially when one is the respondent. Infact, it is the logical and civilised thing to do. Any sensible leader who upholds the rule of law would not turn a blind eye. You cannot instigate an action and begin to complain of getting reactions in equal measures! Can anyone successfully pick hole in the right of another to defend himself legally? By responding to this challenge, Governor Aiyedatiwa should rather be commended for reinforcing constitutional democracy. It is shortsighted to perceive this litigation as solely concerning him. If this matter is pursued as far as the Supreme Court, the entire society stands to benefit from the outcome, head or tail, and the arguements can be laid to rest. The Fourth Alteration to Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, specifically Section 182(3), which is the meat of the controversy, is a novel provision that serves the higher public good when subjected to judicial scrutiny. Novel constitutional amendments are often prone to definitive judicial interpretations. We agree that law is law, but there is no perfect constitution anywhere in the world! That is why there is always room for amendments aimed at remedying latent flaws or mischief.
However, in broader perspectives, the more pressing concerns revolve around the propensity of politicians to weaponize the on-going push and pull, rather than handling it in a manner that can further enrich our democratic system. It is a troubling trend for major political actors, either directly or through proxies, to revel in and politicize isolated security incidents. Worse still, these actors will rather wish that insecurity should fester in the land, just as a weapon to cause public disaffection for the Government. For them, they must input animosity into an unnecessary and pre-mature debate on the future eligibility of one person! Are the people they desperately seek to govern, going to be different from those under the current administration? It smacks of indiscretion for leaders to play the ostrich in matters that ought to invoke collective concern and collaboration in the interest of the State. Leaders, whether in or out of government, who genuinely prioritize the welfare of the people should not remain indifferent to security issues or stand aloof in moments requiring synergy. Governor Aiyedatiwa champions inclusivity and he has been deliberate about this in his approach to governance. His leadership style is rare, characterized by a blend of power, humility, contentment and above all, the fear of God! He respects diverse perspectives and welcomes constructive criticism. Unfortunately, for self-serving political motives, we find individuals adopting a stance of denial, where patriotism would ordinarily dictate collaboration and projection of alternative viewpoints to enhance security, welfare, and development.
It is deeply concerning to observe political actors either overtly or covertly deriving satisfaction from matters negatively affecting public safety. Contemporary security management necessitates collective efforts. The situation becomes convoluted when one chooses to remain passive, doing nothing and laughing at a distance or deriding those in power, who, ironically, are keeping vigils and working relentlessly with the security agencies to secure lives and property.
Alarmingly, certain noticeable actions in some unexpected quarters foster insecurity or hint at subtle sabotage! Simply because another individual, rather than one of their own, holds power today? This should not prevail in a decent society where leaders possess a genuine affection for their constituents.
We must acknowledge that we have no other State to call our own. Our foremost priorities should encompass development, security of lives and property, and the advancement of our people’s prosperity within the State. This is where Governor Aiyedatiwa is taking the lead. Politicizing every issue, including human lives, is a perilous trend that must be unequivocally condemned by all. The current uproar regarding an alleged third-term ambition is premature and diversionary. It is a storm in a tea cup! A leader diligently striving for the advancement of our beloved Sunshine State should be granted respite from unnecessary distractions. Governor Aiyedatiwa remains resolute, focusing solely on delivering the dividends of democracy to the populace. The future rests in the hands of the Almighty, and no individual is permitted to usurp His position.
Omojuwa is the Chief of Staff to Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa
