…Says public office should be a trust, not a lifetime career
The Allied People’s Movement (APM) candidate for Okitipupa Constituency I in the 2027 Ondo State House of Assembly election, Comrade Olawande Temidayo Ajayi, has pledged to serve only one term if elected, declaring that the decision is aimed at protecting the constituency’s long standing legacy of leadership renewal and selfless public service.
Ajayi made the commitment in a statement issued on Saturday, describing the pledge as a deliberate sacrifice inspired by his conviction that political office should be a platform for service rather than personal advancement.
According to him, Okitipupa Constituency I has, since the advent of the Fourth Republic in 1999, maintained a culture that encourages leadership renewal, a tradition he said deserves to be preserved for the benefit of future generations.
“I wish to make this solemn pledge to the people of Okitipupa Constituency I that if entrusted with your mandate in the 2027 election, I will serve only one term in the Ondo State House of Assembly.
“This decision is founded on principle and not convenience. Leadership is a trust, not an entitlement. Our constituency has built a reputation for giving different individuals the opportunity to serve, and I believe that legacy must be protected, not eroded.
“My ambition is not to build a political empire or remain in office for as long as possible. My ambition is to offer effective representation, sponsor people centred legislation, provide diligent oversight, and ensure that every community in our constituency has a voice in government.
“When my tenure is over, I want the people to remember the quality of my service and the impact of my stewardship, not the number of years I occupied public office.”
The APM standard bearer said his one term commitment reflected his belief that democracy flourishes when leadership is driven by integrity, accountability, and a willingness to create opportunities for others to serve.
He maintained that enduring legacies are built through purposeful service rather than prolonged occupancy of office, adding that the measure of a leader should be the value created for the people and not the duration of political power.
Ajayi urged the electorate to embrace a new political culture anchored on honour, transparency, and responsible leadership, expressing confidence that Okitipupa Constituency I would continue to distinguish itself as a constituency where public office is regarded as a privilege to serve rather than a position to retain at all costs.
He assured residents that, if elected, his administration would be focused on delivering effective representation, championing policies that improve the welfare of the people, and leaving behind a legacy that would inspire future leaders and strengthen democratic governance in the constituency.
