Group dismisses opposition criticisms of Gov Aiyedatiwa  

The Nigeria in Safe Hands Project, on Friday, dismissed criticisms from the opposition against Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the upcoming gubernatorial election in Ondo State.

They also characterised the opposition’s claims as political distractions meant to cloud the public’s judgement.

In a statement, the National Coordinator of the group, Osabinu Olufemi, urged the electorate to examine Aiyedatiwa’s substantial achievements as the election approaches.

He said: “As the Ondo State gubernatorial election scheduled for November 16th, 2024, approaches, political discourse has reached a fever pitch. Central to this electoral contest is Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who ascended to the gubernatorial seat on December 27th, 2023, following the unfortunate demise of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu.

“In the face of mounting opposition, particularly from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, former Deputy Governor Agboola Ajayi, Aiyedatiwa’s leadership has come under intense scrutiny.”

Olufemi noted Ajayi’s criticisms regarding Aiyedatiwa’s governance, particularly questioning his strategic foresight and coordination, and stressed that Aiyedatiwa’s leadership has been marked by transformative governance, focusing on civil service welfare, infrastructural development, educational reform, and youth empowerment.

He added, “Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration has been a beacon of hope for civil servants and retirees alike. In an unprecedented move, his government cleared a staggering N3.2 billion backlog of gratuities owed to pensioners, a debt that had long been a burden on past administrations.

“His unwavering commitment to the welfare of civil servants is further underscored by his consistent and timely payment of salaries. This not only demonstrates fiscal discipline but also exemplifies his profound understanding of the importance of public service morale.

“The governor’s far-reaching reforms have revitalized the public sector, fostering an environment where productivity and dedication thrive. On revolutionizing the education sector, he explained that the strides made by Aiyedatiwa’s administration in the educational sector are nothing short of transformative.”

He also pointed out Aiyedatiwa’s significant contributions to the educational sector, including the recruitment of over 2,000 teachers and the payment of WAEC fees for public school students, alleviating financial burdens on families. Additionally, N335 million has been allocated for bursaries and scholarships, enhancing access to higher education.

Ilaje Local Government Area’s role in Ondo State’s economy was also noted, with the potential benefits of zoning the governorship to the area. Olufemi highlighted Aiyedatiwa’s candidacy as historic, marking the possibility of Nigeria’s first deputy governor being elected as governor, which would enhance the state’s democratic profile.

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He said that the governor’s efforts in infrastructure development, particularly in rural areas, have aimed to improve connectivity and stimulate economic activity, adding, “His administration has also prioritized youth empowerment and agricultural advancement, creating employment opportunities and boosting productivity.

“Furthermore, the governor has been instrumental in reviving long-abandoned projects, ensuring that educational infrastructure is restored to modern standards. His vision for an educated and enlightened populace is clear, and his policies serve as a testament to his resolve to leave an indelible mark on the state’s educational landscape.

“Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration has made significant strides in infrastructure and rural development, particularly in previously neglected areas.

“His aggressive rural road construction projects aim to enhance connectivity, facilitate commerce, and stimulate economic activity in underserved regions. This has set Ondo State on a trajectory towards greater economic prosperity.

“In addition to infrastructure development, Aiyedatiwa’s government has prioritized youth empowerment and agricultural advancement. Strategic initiatives have boosted agricultural productivity, increased food output, and created employment opportunities for youth. Various programs equip young people with the necessary skills and resources to thrive in today’s economy.

“Ilaje Local Government Area (LGA) plays a critical role in Ondo State’s economic blueprint due to its rich natural resources, including crude oil and silica gel. Its coastal positioning makes it integral to Nigeria’s blue economy vision, aiming to harness maritime resources for international trade and economic diversification.

“Zoning the seat of power to Ilaje LGA could unlock greater economic opportunities, bolster industrial capacity, and drive regional and state-wide economic growth. Aiyedatiwa’s candidacy is historic, as he could become Nigeria’s first deputy governor to be democratically elected as governor.”