A political war of words has erupted in Ondo State, with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leveling serious accusations against Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. The PDP alleges that the governor is deliberately neglecting and attempting to dismantle projects initiated by his late predecessor, Rotimi Akeredolu, suggesting a motive of political vendetta. This accusation, put forth by the PDP's Director of Media and Publicity, Mr. Leye Igbabo, claims that Aiyedatiwa is seeking to erase Akeredolu's legacy, stemming from past political disagreements where Aiyedatiwa's ascension to the governorship was reportedly challenged by Akeredolu's camp.
The PDP statement suggests that Governor Aiyedatiwa has even boasted about his power to halt projects he dislikes, leaving beneficiaries to find alternative funding. The opposition party expresses deep concern, citing the substantial resources at the governor's disposal and questioning why he would hesitate to complete ongoing projects, emphasizing the principle of government as a continuum.
However, the All Progressives Congress (APC), through its State Director of Media and Publicity, Mr. Steve Otaloro, vehemently refutes these claims, dismissing the PDP as an "attention seeker" engaged in "desperate attempts to regain relevance." Otaloro asserts that the allegations are baseless and that Governor Aiyedatiwa is actively working to complete all projects from the previous administration.
He highlights that Aiyedatiwa served as deputy governor under Akeredolu, making it "nonsensical" to suggest he would undermine a legacy he helped build. The APC further points to recent commissioning of road projects and infrastructure developments, such as the Oda Road in Akure, as evidence of the governor's commitment to continuity and progress.
The APC accuses the PDP of resorting to "disinformation" and "baseless propaganda" due to their own internal struggles and declining influence, particularly after their unsuccessful attempt to challenge Aiyedatiwa's victory in the November 16, 2024, governorship election at the tribunal. The APC advises the opposition to focus on their party's challenges, including significant defections, rather than misleading the public.
