In a controversial turn of events, it has been alleged that Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa of Ondo State is recklessly indebting the state by awarding multi-billion naira contracts to political figures ahead of the APC Primary election scheduled for this Saturday.
Ayedatiwa, who assumed office following the demise of his predecessor, Rotimi Akeredolu, is reportedly striving to secure his candidacy through the APC Primary, drawing criticism from the Ondo Shunshine Alliance, a socio-political group.
Coordinator of the alliance, Ayomide Olamiju, strongly denounced the governor’s actions, expressing concern over the potential drain on the state treasury. Olamiju particularly questioned the involvement of Abdullahi Ganduje, the former Governor of Kano State, who is currently embroiled in bribery allegations in his home state, yet allegedly spearheading corrupt practices in Ondo.
The Ondo Shunshine Alliance claimed that Ayedatiwa awarded lucrative contracts, including the judges’ quarters project, to Ganduje, purportedly to secure his support ahead of the primary election. Additionally, contracts worth billions of naira were allegedly granted to Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, while the Ondo Seaport project was assigned to Prince Iludoyin.
In a statement, Olamiju accused Ayedatiwa of lavishly spending state funds to sway members of the APC National Working Committee and various interest groups in his bid for the party’s ticket.
The group cautioned the APC National Chairman to maintain impartiality and urged Governor Ayedatiwa to desist from compromising the future of Ondo State. They threatened to involve anti-graft agencies if the alleged contracts were not rescinded promptly.
The situation casts a shadow over the political landscape of Ondo State as the primary election draws near.
