Ondo Election: South West youths reject Akeredolu’s adoption by Obas
By Samuel Ogunsona
An umbrella organisation of many youth organisations in the South West have rejected the recent second term adoption of Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu by some traditional rulers in the state.
The Ondo State election is slated for 2020. The State Governor, Akeredolu has been having challenges within the ruling All Progressive Congress, (APC).
In a communique issued at the end of its meeting, the Executive of South West Youth Forum strongly condemned the endorsement of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu for the second term by some traditional rulers in the State.
The youth coalition said it would launch a massive campaign across the local governments in Ondo State to promote the best candidate that will promote justice and equity in Ondo State
The communique made available to Irohinodua on Monday said Ondo youths are determined to work against Akeredolu.
The report was signed by the group’s leader, Mr Funso Ajimuda.
The group noted with concern and dismay that the adoption is strange in view of the fact that Obas are meant to be apolitical while they should only play fatherly role to all apart from being the custodian of tradition and customs of the people.
Ajimuda who is the National leader of the SW Youth said It is improper for some Royal Fathers to adopt a single aspirant in the midst of numeruos aspirants working for the same seat accross the state.
“It is disappointing that these Obas would allow themselves to be dragged into the murky waters of politics and turned into political puns in the electoral chessgame,” Ajimuda said.
He spoke further “This unwarranted alliance with Governor Rotimi Akeredolu for second term bid will continue to spur wide condemination and disrespect to the Royal Fathers among the populace.
We heard the Obas have agreed to set up working committees accross the three senetorial districts and go for house to house to seek vote for Governor Akeredolu. This is uncharitable and may have been driven by personal gains.”
Ajimuda further said the endorsement saga is a sad reminder of the ignoble act of some Yoruba Obas who were gands in gloves with late General Sani Abacha.
“The Obas have gone too far by involving themselves in the endorsement of the Governor and they should retrace thier Royal steps and provide a leveling ground for all political parties and aspirants in thier domain as it is expected of them” the group said.
