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In a surprising turn of events, the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Lateef Salami, has emerged victorious in the Ondo State Local Government Election for Ajowa/Gedegede/Igasi-Akoko Ward 5. Hon. Salami secured 1,494 votes to defeat his closest rival, Toye Ajiboye of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who polled 1,271 votes.  

The victory came against the backdrop of controversy surrounding the PDP’s participation in the election. Earlier in the week, the party’s State Secretary, Barr. Olujimi, announced the withdrawal of the PDP from the electoral process, citing alleged irregularities and lack of transparency by the Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC).  

However, the announcement was met with resistance from the party’s candidates, including Hon. Salami, who vowed to remain in the race. The candidates accused the party’s leadership of acting unilaterally without proper consultation and reaffirmed their commitment to the election just 72 hours before voting commenced.  

Speaking after his declaration as the winner, Hon. Salami expressed gratitude to his supporters and pledged to prioritize grassroots development in the ward. “This victory is for the people. It is a call to service, and I will do everything within my power to ensure that Ajowa, Gedegede, and Igasi-Akoko communities witness significant progress,” he said.  

Meanwhile, the APC candidate, Toye Ajiboye, has yet to react to the outcome of the election. Party insiders.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ondo State Chapter, has announced its withdrawal from the January 18, 2025, Local Government elections, citing alleged lack of credibility, transparency, and impartiality by the Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC).  

In a statement released on Wednesday, the party’s Director of Media and Publicity, Leye Igbabo, disclosed that the decision to pull out was made after extensive consultations involving party leaders, stakeholders, and the National Secretariat.  

According to Igbabo, the PDP had initially fielded 15 chairmanship candidates across 15 Local Government Areas and 131 councillorship candidates. However, recent observations and reports revealed what the party described as “a troubling pattern of double standards” by ODIEC, casting doubt on the commission’s capacity to conduct a credible election.  

“As a responsible political party committed to democracy and the rule of law, we cannot, in good conscience, confer legitimacy on this compromised process by participating in the election,” the statement read.  

The party expressed concerns over ODIEC’s perceived bias, noting that its credibility has “failed the integrity test.” It further emphasized the PDP’s unwavering commitment to credible electoral practices and its determination to sanitize the electoral process in Ondo State.  

This development is expected to further heat up the political atmosphere in Ondo State, as the January 18 polls draw closer. Efforts to get a reaction from ODIEC were unsuccessful as of press time.  

The Governor of Ondo State, Hon Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has approved the dissolution of the State Executive Council, with immediate effect. This is contained in a statement signed and released to newsmen on Wednesday morning in Akure by Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State. 

However, the Governor has exempted two members of the cabinet from the dissolution, due to the critical nature of their duties. They are the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Kayode Ajulo, SAN and the Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Omowunmi Isaac. 

All the affected cabinet members are to hand over all government properties in their care to the accounting officers of their respective ministries.

Governor Aiyedatiwa thanked the EXCO members for their service and contributions to the development of Ondo State under his administration and wished them well in their future endeavours. 

 Your Excellency,  

On behalf of Young Women and Female Students of the O’Datiwa Women Initiative, I heartily felicitate you on your 60th birthday. Your leadership has been a beacon of hope, especially for young women, as you have consistently championed inclusivity by giving us opportunities to contribute meaningfully to governance.  

Your unwavering commitment to uplifting the needy and empowering widows has left an indelible mark on countless lives, embodying the compassionate leadership we admire and celebrate today.  

May this milestone year bring you renewed strength, wisdom, and grace to continue your impactful service to our dear Ondo State.  

Comr. Grace Atoyebi is the Technical Head of Young Women and Female Students Affairs, of the O’Datiwa Women Initiative.

A Missive To Aiyedatiwa @ 60

Dear Mr. Governor,

Congratulations on attaining the prestigious milestone of 60 years. A feat that demonstrates your resilience in navigating both the tumultuous waters of governance and the intricate art of political survival. As you bask in the glory of this diamond jubilee, may I remind you, sir, that diamonds are forever, just as your legacy could be, should you choose to act decisively. With the clock ticking on your one-term governorship, history beckons. Will it record you as just another occupant of the Alagbaka seat, or as the visionary leader who defied the odds to deliver transformational, landmark projects? The answer, dear Governor, lies in your hands and, more importantly, in your actions.  

Your Excellency, it is no secret that the southern part of Ondo State, your homeland, has endured years of administrative neglect. Shall we continue this dismal tradition, or will you rise to the occasion and carve your name indelibly in the annals of Ondo’s history? From the decrepit roads of Ilaje to the unfulfilled promises of industrialization in Okitipupa, the south remains a sleeping giant yearning for a wake-up call. What better gift to your people, sir, than development projects so grand and transformative that they whisper your name for decades to come? Imagine a seaport, a fully functional industrial park, or even a groundbreaking educational initiative, all stamped with the unmistakable hallmark of “Lucky’s Legacy.”  

However, Your Excellency, greatness comes at a price. It requires the bold conquest of that insidious vice known as greed and the full embrace of patriotism. Resist the allure of plush mansions in Dubai and secret bank accounts in Switzerland, for they pale in comparison to the enduring glory of being the people’s hero. Let your 60th year be a turning point and a call to action, a declaration of intent, and a pledge to serve selflessly. Ondo State does not need another fleeting politician; it craves a statesman. Be that statesman, sir. For if you heed this advice, posterity will remember you not as a governor who simply passed through but as one who truly passed on a legacy.

Thanks and happy birthday once again, Mr. Governor. 

Your Citizen,

Wándé T. Àjàyí.

Hon. Soga Andrew Ogunsakin, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the upcoming Okitipupa Local Government Chairmanship election scheduled for January 18, 2025, has expressed his heartfelt gratitude to supporters for their generous contributions toward his campaign.  

In a statement released to the public, Ogunsakin extended his appreciation to individuals and groups who have supported his campaign through financial and moral contributions. He emphasized that their backing reflects a collective belief in the shared vision of a prosperous and thriving Okitipupa Local Government.  

Ogunsakin, however, clarified that the campaign is being conducted under the auspices of the APC, with all financial activities adhering strictly to the party’s guidelines. To this end, he announced that all donations received directly have been remitted to the party’s treasury.  

“I humbly express my profound gratitude for every generous donation made toward my campaign,” Ogunsakin stated. “However, I wish to emphasize that this campaign is conducted under the guidance and auspices of the party. Therefore, I kindly request that all donations related to my campaign be directed to the party’s treasury, as all funds will be managed by the party in adherence to its financial guidelines and principles.”  

The APC candidate’s gesture highlights his commitment to transparency and party discipline, ensuring accountability in the use of campaign funds.  

Ogunsakin reaffirmed his confidence in achieving victory with the continued support of the people and the party’s backing. He assured supporters that their contributions are pivotal to the collective effort to bring meaningful development to Okitipupa Local Government.  

“As we approach the election date, I assure you that, together, we will achieve victory and deliver meaningful development to our community,” he added.  

The Okitipupa Chairmanship election is one of the most anticipated local government elections in Ondo State, with Ogunsakin emerging as a strong contender under the APC banner.

In a remarkable display of generosity, Mr. Eniola Tosin has empowered over 142 women in Idanre with cash gifts of ₦50,000 each, alongside scholarships for 28 local pupils. This event, held at Ojomu Hall in Owa’s Palace, was part of his ongoing commitment through the Eniola HomePlace Foundation to uplift the community. 

Mr. Tosin emphasized that financial support would offer more sustainable benefits than temporary relief items like clothes and food.

During the event, Mr. Tosin announced plans for further initiatives in 2025, including the provision of boreholes for clean water, skill acquisition programs for youth, and free JAMB forms for 500 students. 

He expressed gratitude to those who have supported his foundation’s efforts and reiterated his dedication to transforming lives through impactful initiatives.

Beneficiaries expressed overwhelming joy at receiving the financial support. 

Miss Jose Ifeoluwa, a primary school pupil, thanked God for Mr. Tosin’s generosity, while Mrs. Oluwasusi Kate, a fashion designer, praised the donation as a significant boost for her business. 

Community leaders also commended Mr. Tosin’s consistent philanthropic efforts over the past six years and encouraged others to follow his example.

Pastor Eniola Oluwole, Mr. Tosin’s father, highlighted the biblical principle of giving and its blessings from God. He noted that his son inherited this spirit of generosity and advised beneficiaries to use their funds wisely. Following the event, Mr. Tosin visited local leaders to honor the legacy of the late Oba Aroloye and pray for continued blessings upon the community.

The Ondo State Government has stepped in to resolve the ongoing disagreement between the management of Okitipupa Oil Palm PLC and some of its host communities, following grievances raised against the Ondo Oil Palm Company (OOPC).  

In a statement issued on behalf of the state government, the Technical Adviser to the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Yomi Adebayo, disclosed that Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has directed that formal negotiations be held between OOPC and the aggrieved host communities.  

According to the release, the Office of the Attorney General has been tasked with facilitating the discussions, ensuring that all parties collaborate to find a lasting and constructive resolution to the issues raised.  

The government acknowledged the significant contributions of Okitipupa Oil Palm PLC to the state’s economy, emphasizing the need for businesses to operate in harmony with their host communities. It urged all parties to avoid any form of illegality or self-help, stressing that all issues must be resolved within the framework of the law.  

“The Ondo State Government will not tolerate any form of illegality or self-help from any party involved. We encourage all stakeholders to adhere strictly to the principles and mandates of the law as they navigate the issues at hand,” the statement read.  

Governor Aiyedatiwa reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting the interests of local communities while fostering an environment that supports investors to operate responsibly. He has also directed law enforcement agencies and relevant government bodies to investigate the matter thoroughly and ensure peace and order are maintained.  

The government appealed for calm and restraint from all stakeholders, urging them to explore every avenue for dialogue and resolution rather than resorting to drastic measures.  

This development comes as part of the state government’s broader efforts to balance the interests of host communities and businesses, ensuring mutual benefits for all parties.  

The government expressed its appreciation to stakeholders for their continued cooperation in fostering peace and development in Ondo State.  

Title: My Apology to Mele Kyari

I write today with a deep sense of humility and genuine admiration for the remarkable achievements of Mr. Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), as he marks his 60th birthday.

It is no secret that I, along with many others, was once a vocal critic of NNPCL and its leadership. In fact, like my former boss, President Olusegun Obasanjo, I shared the belief that nothing positive could come from the NNPCL, and I openly expressed skepticism over its ability to deliver on its promises. I was, at that time, dismissive of the leadership of Mr. Mele Kyari, and I even laughed at the very idea of NNPCL’s creation.

However, the remarkable and multi-dimensional achievements of Mr. Kyari and his management team have truly reshaped my perspective. Over the past few years, I have watched with astonishment as NNPCL has made tangible strides in transforming Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. The revival of our refineries, the revitalization of critical infrastructure, and the efforts to tackle the petroleum industry’s long-standing issues have defied all expectations.

Particularly commendable is the significant downward trend in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) at the pumps, which is a direct result of NNPCL’s strategic initiatives and commitment to improving the petroleum sector for the benefit of the Nigerian people. This development is already easing some of the economic burdens Nigerians have been grappling with, and it deserves widespread commendation.

On this occasion of Mr. Mele Kyari’s 60th birthday, I seize the opportunity to offer my heartfelt congratulations. Your dedication, leadership, and achievements have not only earned the respect of your peers, but have also turned former critics like myself into proud supporters of the work you continue to do.

I pray that the Almighty God blesses you with continued wisdom, strength, and success as you press forward in your mission to ensure a more prosperous future for Nigeria. May your efforts continue to help alleviate the hardships of Nigerians, particularly by further reducing the cost of PMS, and may you be richly rewarded for your service to the nation.

Congratulations once again, Mr. Mele Kyari.

Dr. Doyin Okupe

Former Presidential Spokesman