Abuja: Some indigenes of Ondo State have expressed disapproval over Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s decision to reappoint Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti as Secretary to the State Government (SSG) after his resignation to contest a senatorial seat in the state. The criticism comes from the Ondo Redemption Front (ORF), led by its Chairman, Dr. Ologun Ayodeji, Co-Chairman Mogbojuri Kayode, and Secretary Adedotun Ajulo, during a briefing in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the group clarified that their intervention is not rooted in political bitterness but reflects a genuine concern for the state’s potential and the need for improved governance. They criticized the administration for what they described as ‘governance by announcements’ and called for measurable results for the citizens. The ORF argued that Fasoranti’s reappointment highlights a lack of strategic thinking and weak coordination within the administration.
The group emphasized that the role of the SSG is crucial for policy coordination and should not be treated as a ceremonial or political position. They noted that the office remained vacant for months after Fasoranti’s resignation, creating an avoidable vacuum in government operations. This, they asserted, raised questions about whether the position is institutional or politically driven.
The ORF also voiced concerns regarding the Ministry of Finance, citing allegations of administrative bottlenecks and interference in government processes. They urged the governor to investigate complaints against the Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Omowumi Isaac, and ensure that government operations are not hindered by bureaucratic obstacles.
On infrastructure issues, the group questioned the transparency of the Akure flyover project, noting insufficient public information on its cost, procurement process, funding, and contractor selection. They also highlighted the challenges facing public hospitals, educational institutions like Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, and the rising insecurity in rural communities.
The indigenes called on the governor to strengthen institutional governance, conduct an administrative review to address bottlenecks, and publish full details of the Akure flyover project. They also urged reforms in health, education, and security sectors and proposed quarterly public accountability sessions to ensure transparency and accountability.
In response, Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Ebenezer Adeniyan, dismissed the group’s allegations as baseless, labeling them as habitual critics who seek attention rather than solutions. He defended the governor’s right to appoint his cabinet and affirmed that details of projects, including the Akure flyover, are already in the public domain, suggesting that the group use the Freedom of Information Act for further details.