By Adedeji Fathia Bamidele (Siwes student, Ogun State Institute of Technology Igbesa OGITECH)
A prominent governorship hopeful within the People’s Democratic Party in Ondo State, Chief Olusola Ebiseni, who also serves as the Secretary General of the Pan Yoruba Socio-Political Group, Afenifere, believes that the upcoming election will be a pivotal moment for the state.
Ebiseni, a seasoned lawyer and former commissioner, emphasized the importance of leadership grounded in the Awolowo school of thought, highlighting the historical trajectory of governance in Ondo.
Reflecting on the state’s proud legacy with leaders like Ajasin, Adefarati, Agagu, Mimiko, and Akeredolu, Ebiseni stressed the need to maintain high standards in governance.
He emphasized the significance of understanding the state’s territory, people, and the equitable distribution of resources.
Drawing from his experience as an elected Local Government Chairman and three-time Commissioner in the Ministry of Environment and Mineral Resources, Ebiseni emphasized the state’s comparative advantage in knowledge.
He proposed diversifying the state’s economy, reducing reliance on the federal account, and creatively developing resources within constitutional provisions.
Ebiseni also called for the revival of discontinued social services, particularly in education and health, including the Mother and Child hospitals.
Dismissing concerns about affordability, he argued for prioritizing these essential programs, drawing on his past experience in successfully implementing such initiatives for the state.
Furthermore, as a delegate at the 2014 National Conference and Secretary General of Afenifere, Ebiseni pledged to collaborate with progressive forces to advocate for restructuring the Federation towards true federalism.
