Ondo Progressive Consolidation On Inclusive Governance

By Allen Sowore

This may not be the best time for desperate and tetchy politicians in the Sunshine State, but it is certainly the best time for the people. Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa is steadily and unapologetically expanding new frontiers while consolidating his promise of all-inclusive governance—ensuring that the overriding interest of the state takes precedence over narrow political ambitions. 

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Today, every stratum of society is represented in the formulation and implementation of government policies and programmes.

There is no doubt: Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa is determined, committed, and focused on delivering on his promises to make life easier for the people and to take Ondo State to greater heights.

In his resolve to carry along all critical stakeholders and accommodate diverse interests, the Governor initiated an elaborate stakeholders’ forum, drawing participants from all 18 local government areas and the LCDA’s. 

This forum meets quarterly at the International Culture and Events Centre (The Dome).

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On Friday, August 1, 2025, exercising his powers as leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State and in line with Article 12:9 of the APC Constitution—which provides for the establishment of a State Caucus—Governor Aiyedatiwa convened the APC caucus meeting for the first time in several years. 

The practice of holding caucus meetings before making major decisions underscores his commitment to inclusivity.

Similarly, on Saturday, August 9, 2025, he inaugurated the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), composed of cerebral and notable APC leaders in the state. 

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The Council, chaired by Chief Pius Akinyelure, former Chairman of the Board of Directors of NNPC Limited, is tasked with offering quality advice and support to the Governor on governance and the growth of the APC. 

Honourable Isaac Kekemeke, the ebullient National Vice Chairman (South West) of the APC and a former Secretary to the State Government, serves as Secretary of the GAC.

The statutory State Executive Council has been inaugurated. Beyond that, Governor Aiyedatiwa has appointed Senior Special Assistants from various fields of endeavour, as well as at least one Special Assistant from each of the 203 wards across the state.

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It is both disrespectful and dishonest for anyone to question the leadership of a duly elected governor in a constitutional democracy like Nigeria. Yet, even in the face of such provocations, Governor Aiyedatiwa remains mild, measured, and unassuming.

In essence, the Governor is steadily consolidating his all-inclusive approach to governance.

The late sage, Pa Adekunle Ajasin, of blessed memory, defined democracy as: “You talk; I talk.” It is about freedom of speech, diverse opinions, and consulting with the people—sovereignty expressed in solving pressing societal needs. That is exactly what Governor Aiyedatiwa is doing.

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As Jeremy Bentham succinctly put it, democracy is about ensuring “the greatest happiness of the greatest number.”

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