Ondo govt dismisses thuggery allegations, affirms commitment to peaceful politics
By Julius Alabi, Akure
The Ondo State Government has dismissed allegations that thugs were deployed to disrupt a recent political gathering in the state, describing the claims as malicious, unfounded and aimed at discrediting the administration of Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa.
In a press statement issued on Wednesday, the government said the accusations were false and misleading, insisting that they were orchestrated by “unscrupulous elements” seeking to tarnish the image of the governor and destabilise the peaceful political atmosphere currently prevailing in the state.
The statement, signed by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Idowu Ajanaku, categorically stated that Governor Aiyedatiwa was neither aware of nor connected to the meeting in question and could not have sanctioned any act of thuggery.
According to the government, Governor Aiyedatiwa has consistently demonstrated leadership anchored on civility, inclusiveness and respect for democratic principles, maintaining a clear aversion to violence and political intimidation.
Ajanaku stressed that the governor’s political trajectory and public service record reflect a commitment to peaceful engagement and dialogue as the cornerstone of governance.
The government further maintained that the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State remains a disciplined and people-oriented political platform devoted to constructive participation in the democratic process.
The Commissioner noted that several political meetings, consultations and stakeholder engagements have been conducted peacefully across the state without any reported disruption.
These, he said, underscore the maturity, orderliness and internal cohesion that define the party’s operations under the current administration.
The Commissioner reaffirmed that the governor’s primary focus remains the delivery of good governance and the consolidation of development initiatives across key sectors of the state’s economy.
He added that the administration is fully aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aimed at driving national growth and improving citizens’ welfare.
Ajanaku emphasised that sustaining peace and strengthening democratic values remain central to its policy direction.
He reiterated that Ondo State has continued to enjoy a stable political climate, enabling the government to channel its energy toward infrastructure, social services and economic advancement.
Describing the allegations as a calculated attempt to sow discord, he urged members of the public to disregard what it called baseless claims.
He appealed to political actors and stakeholders to prioritise responsible conduct and issue-based campaigns, especially as democratic activities intensify.
He also warned purveyors of misinformation to desist from spreading false narratives capable of undermining public trust and political harmony.
He stressed that security agencies remain vigilant and committed to maintaining law and order across the state.
The Commissioner assured residents that it would not allow any individual or group to derail the peace and stability that Ondo State currently enjoys.
He further called on citizens to remain confident in the administration’s unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability and democratic integrity.
The statement concluded by reaffirming that Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership would continue to promote inclusiveness, lawful engagement and policies that advance the prosperity of the people.
