Concerns are arising from different parts of Ondo State over what is perceived as the subjugation of the State by sister Ekiti State in the even distribution of dividends of democracy from the Federal Government.
Various demography of the state– youths, adults, public servants, students, artisans observers and the general public– are raising eyebrows on the glaring imbalance in Federal Government’s presence between Ondo and Ekiti States.
The latest of these lamentations is contained in an opinion article written by Jonathan Obatola and entitled, “Tinubu’s Appointments: Ekiti Senator, Opeyemi Bamidele, Subjugating Ondo State?” where he decried the disparity in access to juicy positions and Federal Government’s projects between the two states.
Ekiti State, carved out of the Old Ondo State in 1996 by the military government of Late General Sanni Abacha, has been adjudged to be on a cruise ride to development, farther than the Ondo State which midwived her and has been existence since February 1976.
This imbalance has been attributed to the presence of illustrious Ekiti indigenes in strategic positions in the government of the Incumbent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as against the little or unnoticed presence of Ondo indigenes in the government.
Jonathan Obatola wrote, “In the current political dispensation, it is increasingly evident that Ekiti State, carved out of the old Ondo State, enjoys a disproportionate share of federal appointments and political recognition, particularly under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This is both perplexing and concerning, especially considering that Ondo State delivered more votes for the President in the 2023 general election than Ekiti and many other states in the federation.
“At the federal legislative level, Ekiti has secured key leadership positions: Senator Opeyemi Bamidele serves as Senate Leader, Senator Yemi Adaramodu is the Senate Spokesperson, and Hon. Akin Rotimi is the Spokesperson of the House of Representatives. While the political representation is welcome, the pattern here suggests an imbalance that cannot be overlooked.
“More troubling is the recent development where the Senate Leader, Sen. Opeyemi Bamidele, reportedly sought to dictate Ondo State’s nominee to the South West Development Commission, an appointment constitutionally and politically under the purview of the Executive Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa. This overreach is not only disrespectful but a clear affront to the people and leadership of Ondo State,” the writer asserted.
He therefore sounded a wake-up call to Ondo politicians, Federal Government officials and APC gladiators to jettison the local champion toga and influence more benefits to Ondo State.
Specifically, he entreated Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Honourable Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Interior Minister, and others to demonstrate patriotism to the Sunshine State for the benefit of the people.
