As the Ondo State governorship election progressed on Saturday, All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart and former gubernatorial candidate, Olusola Oke, voiced his satisfaction with the peaceful conduct and orderly nature of the exercise. Speaking shortly after casting his vote at Ilowo Unit 6, Olori Alufa, Ugbo Ward 3 in Ilaje LocalGovernment Area, Oke highlighted the significant voter turnout and commended both the electorate and the electoral officials for their roles in ensuring a smooth process.
“The organization at my polling unit has been exemplary,” Oke said. “Voters showed up in good numbers, and everything has proceeded calmly and orderly. It’s a clear indication that people are interested in participating and making their voices heard.” Oke noted that the positive atmosphere extended beyond his immediate polling area, with reports from other parts of the state indicating similar peaceful conduct.
Oke’s observations are noteworthy, given the historical challenges faced during previous elections in the riverine areas of Ondo State. Logistical issues, security concerns, and voter apathy have often marred elections in the past, but this time, the atmosphere was different.
The APC chieftain emphasized that this election, in his view, stands out as one of the most peaceful and well-organized he has witnessed in recent years. “Even in the riverine communities, where we usually experience delays and disruptions, everything has gone smoothly so far,” he noted. “This is perhaps the best election we have had in terms of peaceful conduct, and it shows the growing maturity of our democratic process.”
Oke attributed the high level of voter participation to a renewed sense of hope among the electorate, particularly in anticipation of the incoming administration led by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. He highlighted Governor Aiyedatiwa’s agricultural agenda as a key factor in boosting voter interest. According to Oke, the governor’s focus on reviving agriculture as the backbone of Ondo State’s economy has resonated strongly with the people, especially those in rural areas who have long depended on farming for their livelihoods.
“Governor Aiyedatiwa has made it clear that one of his top priorities is to revitalize agriculture, which was once the economic foundation of the Southwest region,” Oke said. “In the past, our prosperity was built on agriculture, but this has been overshadowed by the oil boom in recent decades. Now, there is a strong push to return to our roots and harness the full potential of our agricultural resources.”
Oke elaborated on specific measures already being taken by the governor to support this agricultural revival. He mentioned the construction of rural roads as a critical step toward improving access to farmlands, which would in
turn boost agricultural productivity. “Rural infrastructure is vital,” Oke explained. “The governor has started opening up roads in remote areas, making it easier for farmers to reach their lands and transport their produce to markets. This kind of development will help stimulate economic growth in these communities.”
Additionally, Oke highlighted plans by the governor to distribute high-yielding seedlings to farmers, a move aimed at enhancing crop production and ensuring food security. “By providing farmers with high-quality seeds, the government is enabling them to cultivate more efficiently and yield better harvests. It’s a long-term strategy that could transform Ondo State into a leading agricultural hub within a few years,” he remarked.
Beyond agriculture, Oke expressed optimism about the prospects for the riverine communities, which have historically been marginalized in terms of development. He believes that Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration would be more attentive to the needs of these areas, given their potential contributions to the state’s economic growth. “Our riverine areas have suffered neglect for a long time,” Oke said. “However, I am confident that this time, we will see significant improvements. The governor’s victory would mean better representation for us, and initiatives like the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission would finally gain momentum.”
He added that the governor’s focus on agriculture and infrastructure would attract federal attention and investments, which could bring much-needed development to the riverine regions. “With the proper policies and attention from the Federal Government, these areas can flourish and become key contributors to the state’s economy. This is why the people are enthusiastic and hopeful,” Oke noted.
Oke also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies for their roles in facilitating a smooth electoral process. He praised their efforts in maintaining order and ensuring a secure environment for voters. “INEC has done an excellent job so far, and the security personnel have been vigilant in keeping the peace,” he observed. “I urge them to maintain this standard throughout the day to ensure a successful conclusion to the election.”
As the voting continued, Oke extended his congratulations to the people of Ondo State for their active participation and peaceful conduct. He expressed hope that this election would mark a turning point in the state’s governance, bringing about policies and programs that would benefit all regions, especially the underserved riverine communities.
“The enthusiasm shown by the electorate today is a sign that people are ready for change,” he concluded. “I believe that with a strong focus on agriculture, infrastructure, and fair representation, we are on the verge of a new chapter of growth and prosperity for Ondo State.”
