Group warns against political tension in Ondo, applauds Tunji-Ojo, Aiyedatiwa’s performance
By Julius Alabi, Akure
A socio-political advocacy group, the Ondo State Patriotic Movement for Democracy (ODSPMD), has appealed for calm among political actors and supporters in Ondo State, insisting that the state cannot afford renewed tension at a time when governance is beginning to regain momentum.
This was made known in a statement jointly signed by the Convener of the group and Secretary General of the group, Hon. Ariyo Arije, Hon Alabi Julius respectively, Princess Akinrimade Patience Àdùnní (Women Coordinator) and Comrade Tokunbo Aribo Hon (Publicity Secretary)
The group said both the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and the Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, are making “visible contributions” in their respective roles and should not be dragged into needless political rivalry.
The group said recent attempts by “political entrepreneurs” to pit the two leaders against each other were unpatriotic and capable of disrupting ongoing developmental efforts.
It urged residents to ignore what he described as “manufactured frictions” aimed at heating up the polity ahead of future elections.
They noted that Tunji-Ojo’s reforms at the Interior Ministry particularly the overhaul of passport issuance and security related administrative systems have brought national recognition to Ondo State.
According to the group, “Anyone being honest will admit that the minister has raised the bar of public service, and this reflects positively on the state he hails from.”
It added that Governor Aiyedatiwa, on his part, has sustained critical infrastructural projects across the state, while restoring a sense of political stability after months of turbulence.
“Projects abandoned during the transition phase have been revived, and there is renewed focus on rural access roads, health delivery and education. These are facts that should unite, not divide us,” they said.
The group expressed concern that a few interest blocs were attempting to interpret every policy move or public appearance by either man as a calculated political message. Such interpretations, the group argued, were “the handiwork of those who benefit from chaos rather than development.”
They maintained that both men serve different constituencies and should not be drawn into contestation where none exists.
“A minister has a national mandate, a governor has a state mandate. Their work streams intersect in service delivery, not in rivalry. It is irresponsible for anyone to create artificial competition where the leaders themselves have shown mutual respect,” the group emphasized.
They however urged residents to channel their energies into holding public office holders accountable through constructive engagement, not through “social-media skirmishes or speculative narratives” that undermine unity.
The group said the state must rally behind initiatives that promise long-term economic growth, especially in agriculture, technology and regional trade.
It further warned that political tension could discourage investors and stall ongoing federal and state collaborations from which Ondo stands to benefit.
“When leaders are focused and working, the least citizens can do is create an environment that allows their efforts to yield results,” they added.
It stated by calling for stronger civic responsibility and responsible communication from political aides, opinion leaders and party loyalists.
“Ondo State belongs to all of us. Let peace reign, because peace is the foundation upon which both Aiyedatiwa and Tunji-Ojo are delivering. If they are working, then the people must work for peace too,” the group added
