By Miracle Ogunde
The gubernatorial debate in Ondo State, a precursor to the 2024 elections, took place on Sunday, featuring the two prominent candidates: Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the current governor and representative of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Mr. Agboola Ajayi, the former deputy governor and candidate from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Starnews NG highlights the significant moments from the debate, which addressed critical governance topics including security, economic policies, educational reforms, and infrastructure development. Additionally, the candidates had the opportunity to respond to accusations concerning their educational qualifications and past actions.
Here are the key highlights as reported by Starnews NG:
SECURITY
Both candidates were prompted to share their security strategies if elected to lead the state following the November 26 elections.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa asserted that since his administration began, the people of Ondo State have experienced increased security, claiming the state is one of the most peaceful in Nigeria. He addressed the Owo church attack, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to enhancing the security framework to prevent future occurrences. “Our initiatives led to the establishment of ‘Amotekun Corps’ to complement conventional security forces, as we recognized the need for localized solutions to our security challenges,” Aiyedatiwa stated.
Conversely, Agboola Ajayi criticized Aiyedatiwa’s assertion of safety in the state, citing numerous violent incidents, including high-profile killings. He emphasized his role in founding the Amotekun Corps and proposed enhancing it with a new unit called ‘Forest Guards,’ equipped with modern technology to address security effectively.
Regarding security funding, Ajayi accused Aiyedatiwa of receiving a substantial monthly security vote from the federal government, a claim Aiyedatiwa dismissed as unfounded and challenged Ajayi to disclose the security funds he manages.
INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT
Ajayi promised to initiate extensive infrastructure improvements, including road construction to connect urban centers with the riverine areas, arguing that Ondo State has not fully harnessed its resources for industrial growth. Aiyedatiwa countered by pointing out Ajayi’s past failures to advance similar projects during his tenure as chairman of the House Committee on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
MINIMUM WAGE
Governor Aiyedatiwa acknowledged the increased state allocations following the fuel subsidy removal, revealing that his administration raised the minimum wage to ₦73,000. Ajayi countered, asserting that the state deserves a higher minimum wage of ₦76,000.
EDUCATION
Aiyedatiwa highlighted his administration’s educational advancements, claiming the recruitment of 2,000 new teachers and improvements in school infrastructure. Ajayi disputed these claims, labeling them as propaganda, and vowed to reinstate free education and provide essential materials to students.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS
Aiyedatiwa assured that the upcoming local government elections in January 2026 would be fair, while Ajayi suggested abolishing the Ministry of Local Government Affairs to empower local governance.
FITNESS FOR OFFICE AND QUALIFICATIONS
Ajayi responded to questions about his qualifications and fitness for office, asserting that such concerns were politically motivated attacks. He highlighted his extensive political experience as an asset for governance. Aiyedatiwa, on the other hand, raised concerns about discrepancies in Ajayi’s official documents and defended his own qualifications against forgery allegations.
CALL FOR REC REMOVAL
Ajayi reiterated the PDP’s demand for the removal of the Ondo Resident Electoral Commission, arguing it is essential for credible elections. Aiyedatiwa dismissed this call as a political maneuver stemming from the opposition’s anxiety.
CONCLUSION
Both candidates expressed their commitment to ensuring free and fair elections, encouraging voters to participate actively and assured them that their votes would be respected.
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