Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has completed his first year in office, but his performance is being met with mixed reactions from both political pundits and ordinary citizens.
Aiyedatiwa, who assumed office in December 2023 after the sudden passing of former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, has faced both praise and criticism for his governance thus far.
Supporters of the governor believe that his tenure began with the challenge of completing Akeredolu’s unfinished business.
They hope his second year will bring the promised development, especially following his electoral victory in 2024, where he secured a landslide victory across all 18 local government areas of the state.
In his bid for re-election, Aiyedatiwa outlined his vision under the State Economic Empowerment Development Strategy (SEEDS), which aimed to create jobs, enhance infrastructure, and combat poverty.
However, the governor later shifted focus to a new agenda, “O’ Datiwa, O’Dirorun” or “OUR EASE,” raising further questions about his long-term strategy.
Aiyedatiwa’s supporters point to several infrastructure projects, including rural road construction, as key achievements. “The ongoing Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAMP) will open up markets for farmers and improve food production,” said an aide to the governor.
But critics, like commercial driver Adeboye, argue that little progress has been made in key areas. “There is low impact on infrastructure,” Adeboye remarked. “Roads in Akure are still filled with potholes, and basic services like water are lacking. It feels like the government isn’t delivering.”
A social commentator, Olawale Momoh, agreed, saying, “Aiyedatiwa has done the bare minimum—paying salaries and handling the usual affairs. But there are no legacy projects, and essential sectors like health and security are suffering.”
As Aiyedatiwa prepares for another four years, expectations remain high. Allen Sowore, the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant on Strategic Communication, expressed confidence in the future. “Expect unprecedented infrastructure development, improved security, and economic growth,” Sowore said.
However, opposition figures like Kennedy Peretei of the PDP argue that Aiyedatiwa has failed to live up to his promises.
“The people are suffering, and there’s been no real progress. The roads his predecessor started are now abandoned, and hospitals are in desperate need of attention.”
With opinions sharply divided, all eyes will remain on Aiyedatiwa as he moves forward into his second year, with both hope and skepticism shaping the future of Ondo State.