By Comrade Allen Sowore, Esq.
As preparations for the Local Government elections in Ondo State reach an advanced stage, I have observed an overwhelming sense of excitement among the people. This enthusiasm may largely be attributed to the granting of Local Government autonomy. Across the 18 LGAs in the state, the joy and anticipation of the people are palpable.
I recently watched an interview with Dr. Joseph Aremo, the Chairman of the Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC), on OSRC TV. He firmly reiterated that the election date—18th January, 2025—is sacrosanct. “There is no plan to change the date again. All sensitive materials are ready, and the recruitment of ad hoc staff has commenced. I assure the public that the process will be transparent, free, and credible,” he stated.
Interestingly, fourteen political parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), will participate in the elections. Candidates have emerged at both the ward and local government levels.
I am particularly impressed by the balance in my LGA, Ese Odo. The Arogbo axis has produced the chairmanship candidate, High Chief Molos Ebimobowel Caleb (male), while the Apoi axis has presented Ms. Beauty Fayowole Modimu (female) as the vice-chairmanship candidate.
However, the mere fact that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa won all 18 LGAs in the last governorship election does not guarantee an easy victory this time. Rigorous campaigns and hard work will be essential. I intend to join the campaign train in my local government area to engage directly with the grassroots, as politics is, ultimately, local.
Democracy thrives when citizens actively participate. Therefore, I urge everyone to go out on the said date to exercise their franchise. By doing so, we ensure that those elected as council heads can be held accountable for their actions.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has ushered in a new era of autonomous local government administration, and in Ondo State, 18th January, 2025, remains sacrosanct!
Allen Sowore, Esq.
SSA to the Governor on Strategic Communication
8th January, 2025
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