ONDO SOUTH 2026: THE SEARCH FOR A WORTHY SUCCESSOR
_Prince Ralph Oguntibeju, Akure_
The forthcoming Ondo South Senatorial District bye-election scheduled for June 20, 2026, presents yet another defining moment in the political history of the Sunshine State. The election became necessary following the appointment of former Senator representing Ondo South, Jimoh Ibrahim, as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, thereby creating a vacancy in the National Assembly that must be filled in accordance with constitutional provisions.
As the people of Ondo South prepare to elect a senator who will complete the tenure of the 10th National Assembly, the contest offers voters an opportunity to reflect on competence, experience, leadership capacity, and the ability to effectively represent the interests of the district at the Red Chamber.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has cleared candidates from four political parties for the election, namely the APC, APP, APM and BP. Among the contenders, the candidate of the ruling APC, Francis Dayo Faduyile, has attracted considerable attention owing to his professional accomplishments, political experience, and longstanding involvement in public service.
Professor Faduyile is not a newcomer to leadership. A Renowned Professor of Pathology and Forensic Medicine, he rose through the ranks of the medical profession to become National President of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), one of the country’s most influential professional bodies. His tenure in the NMA was marked by advocacy for healthcare reforms, improved welfare for medical personnel, and stronger public health policies. His emergence on the National stage earned him recognition as a consensus builder and a leader capable of navigating complex institutional challenges.
His public service credentials extend beyond medicine. As a former Special Adviser on Health to the Ondo State Government, Presently the Pro Chancellor and Chairman Governing Council of Federal University of Education Kotangora, he contributed to policy conversations aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery and improving access to medical services across the state. His decision to participate in the 2024 governorship race further demonstrated his commitment to public service and his desire to contribute to the development of Ondo State beyond the confines of his professional career.
Perhaps more remarkable was the manner in which he emerged as the APC candidate for the bye-election. In a highly competitive primary that featured several respected political figures, Professor Faduyile secured a convincing victory, demonstrating both grassroots acceptance and the confidence reposed in him by party members across the six local government areas of Ondo South. Reports indicate that he polled an overwhelming majority of votes to clinch the party’s ticket, a development widely interpreted as a reflection of his growing political influence and acceptability across the district.
Supporters argue that his combination of academic excellence, administrative experience, and political maturity positions him as a suitable candidate to continue the work of representation in the Senate. His public pronouncements since emerging as candidate have focused on healthcare, security, economic empowerment, youth development, and the consolidation of ongoing development initiatives within the district.
Beyond various platforms, the emergence of Prof Dayo Faduyile highlights the enduring political cultural background of the Ikale people where Prof Dayo hails from, that constitute a significant component of the Ondo South Senatorial District. Historically, Ikale sons and daughters have distinguished themselves in academia, public service, politics, business, and community leadership. Their contributions to the development of Ondo State and Nigeria have consistently reflected a culture that prizes excellence, diligence, integrity, and intellectual accomplishment.
This tradition of excellence is evident in the calibre of leaders the district has produced over the years. The outgone Senator, Jimoh Ibrahim, brought to the Senate a unique blend of business acumen, legal training, academic attainment, and international exposure. His appointment as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations has been viewed by many observers as recognition of his experience and capacity to serve the Nation at a higher diplomatic level.
For many voters, therefore, the central question in the forthcoming bye-election is not merely who wins, but who possesses the competence, intellect, courage, and legislative capacity to sustain effective representation
for Ondo South during the remainder of the current Senate term which is found in the candidacy of Prof Dayo Faduyile.
Thou, the district faces critical challenges requiring strong advocacy at the National level. Issues relating to coastal protection, infrastructure development, security, youth employment, Education, healthcare delivery, and economic inclusion remain priorities demanding consistent legislative attention. The next Senator must be prepared to engage these issues with urgency and effectiveness. As June 20 approaches, the electorate of Ondo South bears the responsibility of making a choice that transcends party affiliations and political sentiments. Democracy ultimately thrives when voters prioritize competence, character, vision, and proven capacity.
The forthcoming bye-election is therefore more than a routine electoral exercise; it is a referendum on the future direction of representation for one of Ondo State’s most strategic senatorial districts. Who emerges victorious will inherit not only a Senate seat but also the expectations of hundreds of thousands of citizens who desire effective representation, responsive leadership, and meaningful development.
The people of Ondo South have historically demonstrated wisdom in leadership selection. The hope is high in Prof Dayo and that the same spirit will guide the electorate once again as they choose a worthy successor in Faduyile to continue the district’s voice in the National Assembly.
_Ralph Oguntibeju writes from Obaile, Akure_