BY OBADOFIN ADEMOLA
Democracy is founded on one sacred principle: the people decide, once that principle is compromised, democracy begins to lose its soul.
The unfolding political developments in Ondo State have therefore become more than an internal party affair, they have become a test of whether the wishes of ordinary party members still matter.
The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria establishes the Governor as the Chief Executive of the state, entrusted with the responsibility of leading the executive arm of government.
Within the APC, the Governor is widely regarded as the party’s leader in the state. That office deserves respect, not persistent political undermining. Regardless of differing political interests, constitutional authority should never become the target of unnecessary power struggles.
The APC primary elections in Ondo State presented what many participants regarded as a genuine democratic exercise, party members turned out in impressive numbers, cast their votes and awaited the official declaration of the winners.
For those who participated, the exercise demonstrated confidence in the democratic process.
However, concerns have since emerged over reports that some of the names eventually associated with candidacies did not align with those announced after the primaries. Whether these concerns are ultimately upheld or not, they have generated significant debate within the party and raised broader questions about the credibility of internal democratic processes.
If party members begin to doubt that their votes determine outcomes, the very foundation of internal democracy is weakened.
Equally troubling is the perception among many supporters that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa is being subjected to avoidable political pressure despite concentrating on governance. His administration should be measured by its performance and policies, not by the intensity of political battles surrounding it.
There is also growing criticism from some quarters regarding the involvement of influential figures based in Abuja in the political affairs of Ondo State. Many citizens believe that public officials entrusted with important national assignments should devote their energies to addressing the enormous responsibilities before them. Nigeria faces significant economic and developmental challenges that demand unwavering commitment from those in federal office.
Ondo State cannot afford endless political distractions. The Governor requires a cooperative environment to pursue his developmental agenda. He needs legislators prepared to enact laws that promote growth, improve public services and strengthen the state’s institutions. He equally benefits from federal representatives committed to attracting projects and investments that directly improve the lives of the people.
Political competition is healthy, but it should never evolve into a contest that weakens governance or diminishes the voice of the electorate.
Those who disagree with the Governor are entitled to their opinions, but such disagreements should not come at the expense of the stability and progress of Ondo State.
Perhaps the most important question is this: if those currently challenging the Governor occupied his office, would they welcome the same level of interference directed at them?
Leadership demands empathy as much as authority,every public office deserves the respect necessary for its occupant to discharge constitutional responsibilities effectively.
History has repeatedly shown that states prosper when leaders are allowed to govern in an atmosphere of stability, collaboration and respect for democratic institutions. They falter when politics becomes an end in itself.
The people of Ondo State have invested their hope in democratic processes. That hope should not be diminished by controversy or perceptions that political influence outweighs popular choice.
The time has come for all stakeholders to put Ondo first. Respect the Constitution. Respect the democratic process. Respect the office of the Governor.
Above all, respect the voice of the people, for in every true democracy, the people’s mandate remains the highest political authority.
