POLITICS IN ONDO STATE: A DELICATE BALANCE
ASIWAJU ASEYORI AYOWOLE ADEMOYEGUN
Politics in Ondo State is a complex and dynamic landscape, characterized by intricate power struggles, zoning arrangements, and competing interests. As the state navigates its governance challenges, various stakeholders, including politicians, traditional leaders, and citizens, must strike a delicate balance between their aspirations and the greater good. This delicate balance is particularly evident in the state’s gubernatorial politics, where zoning arrangements and party dynamics often shape the outcome of elections. In this context, understanding the intricacies of Ondo State politics is crucial for appreciating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
The notion that Akure should automatically produce the next governor of Ondo State is a misconception. In a democratic setup, anyone can contest for any position as long as there are no constitutional or moral impediments. Ondo State has a history of contested primaries across its three geographical zones, making it unlikely for any single zone to have a monopoly over key positions.
The following should be considered:
– Constitutional Term Limits: According to the Constitution of Nigeria, a governor is elected for a four-year term, renewable once. This means that any incumbent governor looking to extend their term beyond the stipulated limit would need to navigate constitutional hurdles.
– Zonal Rotation: While zoning arrangements have been used in Nigerian politics to balance power across different regions, there is no guarantee that Akure or any specific zone will automatically produce the next governor.
– Emerging Aspirants: Several aspirants from different parts of the state are positioning themselves for the governorship seat. For instance, Minister Tunji Ojo has been mentioned as a potential candidate, sparking permutations and potential crisis.
– Power Dynamics: The relationship between governors and their Deputies in Ondo State has been strained in the past. During the Agagu era, there was reportedly better treatment of deputies, but this has not always been the case.
Strategic Considerations for Akure
– Protecting Current Positions: Akure should prioritize safeguarding its current senatorial position, as losing it could diminish the zone’s influence in state politics.
– Avoiding Complacency: Akures should not take their current positions for granted, as political fortunes can shift rapidly.
– Strategic Alliances: Building alliances and coalitions with other zones and interest groups could help Akure maintain its relevance in Ondo State politics.
Akures supporting other candidates are likely to be on the payroll of those candidates. He who pays the piper dictates the tune, those with financial influence have the power to shape decisions. They are “political Esau,” for trying to sell their birthright for immediate gratification. Some politicians have definitely compromised their values or zone’s interests for short-term benefits. To maintain the influence and power of Akure, it is advisable we hold firmly to what is currently in our hands, such as the senatorial position. This strategic approach prioritizes safeguarding existing assets rather than risking them for uncertain gains.
Financial influence can sway allegiances, and it is crucial for Akure to prioritize its interests and hold on to its current advantages.”
The claim that a Supreme Court judgment has rendered the constitutional provision null and void regarding term limits for Deputy Governors who complete their boss’s term is not supported by publicly available information. In Nigeria, the Constitution clearly outlines term limits for elected officials, including governors and deputy governors.
Given the recent gubernatorial election in Ondo State, where Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the incumbent Governor and former Deputy Governor, won a full term, any potential challenge to constitutional term limits would likely generate significant public debate and legal scrutiny.
Without more specific information on the alleged Supreme Court judgment, it is difficult to assess the validity of the claim. However, any attempts to circumvent constitutional provisions would likely face legal and political challenges.
I am not unmindful of the fact that the Governor must have been penciling down names of people who feel he will be comfortable with for all these elective positions.
External factors and forces particularly from Aso Rock will be a serious invisible hands to contend with. Nigerian politics, where personal interests and external influences do shape decision-making.
The Governor likely preferences for certain individuals to fill elective positions, while also recognizing the potential influence of external factors, including those from Aso Rock (a metonym for the Nigerian presidency) highlights the complex interplay between local and national politics.
Key Considerations
– Governor’s Preferences: The Governor’s choices may be influenced by personal relationships, political loyalty, or perceived ability to advance their agenda.
– External Influences: Aso Rock’s involvement could shape the Governor’s decisions, potentially impacting the selection process for elective positions.
The best bet for Akures is to support Senator Adegbonmire. The criticisms coming from those with ulterior motives or expectations of personal gain should be promptly discarded. There are clear distinction between concerns and self-serving interests.
Let us do a sought of political diagnosis of what is on ground:
– Performance Evaluation: I am satisfied with Senator Adegbonmire’s work, he is meeting expectations. Let us compare the areas of coverage between a House of Representatives members with only two Local Governments and a Senator having six Local Government to take care of. The six still include the two of the House of Representatives members.
– Criticism Motivations: The critics are those seeking personal benefits or opportunities, they are mere political jobbers.
The complexities of evaluating political performance and the potential for biased criticism is a very delicate socio-political consideration.
The selection of a running mate is typically determined by the gubernatorial candidate, with input from the party and potential influence from higher powers. Some Akure politicians are opportunistically pursuing offices without clear goals, contesting any available position and even buying their way into consideration. However, this approach can be counterproductive, as gubernatorial candidates often prioritize capable and loyal partners over those driven by self-interest.
The following issues should be seriously looked into:
– Lack of Clear Goals: Politicians pursuing offices without defined objectives or qualifications.
– Undue Influence: External factors, including financial inducements, can compromise the selection process.
– Self-Interest: Politicians prioritizing personal gain over the greater good may not be ideal running mates.