The political journey of Idanre/Ifedore Federal Constituency has long been defined by an unwritten but deeply respected power rotation agreement between the two local governments. Since 1999, this understanding has not only ensured fairness and inclusion but has also preserved unity, stability, and peaceful coexistence between Idanre and Ifedore—qualities that make the constituency one of the most politically mature in Ondo State.
This informal yet binding pact has stood the test of time, fostering trust and brotherhood between the two areas. It has guaranteed that no one side monopolizes political power, and every part of the constituency feels a sense of belonging in the collective pursuit of development and representation.
Historical context
The understanding between Idanre and Ifedore was reaffirmed in 2011 when the Senatorial slot for Ondo Central was ceded to the Idanre/Ifedore axis. In a show of political maturity and goodwill, Ifedore leaders voluntarily conceded the Senate position to Idanre for eight years—a decision that led to the emergence of Senator Ayo Akinyelure.
That gentleman’s agreement, sealed at a meeting of elders and political leaders in Idanre, became a cornerstone of political cooperation in the area and has guided subsequent decisions on representation and leadership distribution.
Power rotation record (1999–2027)
From 1999 to 2003, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Fagite from Ifedore represented the constituency under the Alliance for Democracy (AD).
From 2003 to 2007, Hon. Augustus Adebayo, also from Ifedore, served under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Between 2007 and 2011, Hon. Jones Akinyugha from Idanre took over the seat, representing the PDP.
From 2011 to 2015, Hon. Moshood Bakare from Ifedore represented the Labour Party (LP).
Hon. Bamidele Baderinwa, another Ifedore native, served between 2015 and 2019 under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
From 2019 to 2023, Hon. Tajudeen Adefisoye, popularly known as “Small Alhaji” from Idanre, held the seat under the SDP/APC.
Currently, from 2023 to 2027, Hon. Festus Akingbasote from Idanre represents the constituency under the PDP/APC.
This sequence clearly reflects an intentional balance between the two local governments—one that has sustained peace and fairness for nearly three decades.
The senatorial understanding
During the late Osakuade’s consultations, both Idanre and Ifedore agreed that Ifedore would take the House of Representatives seat while Idanre would hold the Senatorial position for eight years. This understanding was respected and successfully implemented, leading to mutual political benefits for both sides.
The 2018 renegotiation
In 2018, elders and political leaders from both local governments revisited the agreement and reached a consensus: no local government should retain the House of Representatives seat for more than two consecutive terms—an eight-year maximum.
By this clearly stated rule, Idanre has now enjoyed its full eight-year tenure between 2019 and 2027. As such, equity and mutual respect dictate that the seat should return to Ifedore in the 2027 election.
The way forward: 2027 and beyond
In the spirit of fairness, equity, and sustained partnership, the 2027 House of Representatives seat should rightfully revert to Ifedore Local Government.
Honoring this agreement is not merely a political courtesy—it is a moral obligation that will sustain the bond of brotherhood between Idanre and Ifedore, reinforce public confidence in political justice and inclusivity, and preserve the peace and stability that have defined the constituency for over two decades.
Just as Nigerians across the country support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second term to complete the South’s eight-year cycle before power returns to the North in 2031, so too must all men and women of goodwill in Idanre/Ifedore uphold the same principle of fairness.
Whoever comes to equity must come with clean hands. The right and honourable path forward is clear: in 2027, the House of Representatives seat should return to Ifedore Local Government—not out of sentiment, but in the enduring interest of justice, peace, and political balance.
