<strong><em>Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State</em></strong>
The Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has been urged to consider choosing his deputy from Owo to complete the late Governor Arakunrin Odunayo Oluwarotimi Akeredolu’s term.
This is the position of a socio-political group, Owo Concerned Youths, who believe that the untimely demise of the late Akeredolu has left a vacuum that could reasonably be filled by someone from Owo zone as the choice of Aiyetidawa’s deputy.
“The Owo native language-speaking zone has not yet had the opportunity to fill the position of the Deputy Governor, while the neighboring Akoko Zone has seen not only a former governor but also three Deputy Governors and three Speakers.
It therefore stands to reason that it is now time for the Owo Zone to be granted the same level of representation and we believe that any reasonable Akoko sons and daughters will not stand against Owo becoming Deputy Governor to complete the late Governor Arakunrin Odunayo Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON term.
“Moreover, it is worth noting that the Akoko Zone already has a Senator representing Ondo North, a serving Minister of Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“In light of this, we believe that it would be in the best interest of the state’s unity and fairness for you, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa to consider the Federal Character policy of sharing, to select an Owo indigene as the Deputy Governor to complete the remainder of Arakunrin’s tenure.
“The appointment of an Owo Deputy Governor would not only address the historical disparity in representation but also foster a sense of inclusivity and equal regional participation within Ondo State.
“This is crucial to create a conducive political environment where all zones feel adequately represented and their voices are heard.
“We, the concerned Owo Youths, firmly believe that selecting a deputy governor from Owo would strengthen the unity and harmony among our different zones.
“It would also give the people of Owo a sense of pride and reassurance that their interests are being advocated and protected,” the Owo Concerned Youths said in a letter addressed to the Governor.
While pledging their allegiance to the new governor, the Owo Youths said that “we trust in your wisdom, leadership and dedication to the welfare of the entire state.
“We kindly request that you take our appeal into consideration and ensure that the appointment of an Owo Deputy Governor is given the utmost priority.”