![](https://abntvnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/72D6D8A5-0B25-46C5-B2C8-E533820CA87C.webp)
A socio-cultural group, Imade Development Association (IDA), has asked the Ondo state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa to consider an Owo indigene as his deputy to compensate for the loss of their son; Rotimi Akeredolu.
The group lamented the death of Akeredolu and warned against any move that may lead to further polarisation of the people along ethnic and political divides.
It’s Chairman, Segun Ogunbadeniyi, the Secretary, Femi Fadaisi and Publicity Secretary, Julius Adesola said that Owo as an ethnic group has a strong interest in presenting a candidate for the Deputy Governorship position.
The group said that the interest and preceptive of Owo must be well protected in the scheme of things with the death of Akeredolu, an indigene of the town.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Ogunbadeniyi, said “In our opinion, the joint ticket that expires in February 2025 is Owo/Ilaje.
“We do not understand any calculation outside of it. Whoever picks the ticket of APC or PDP next year can therefore decide which zone to produce the Deputy Governor.
“Any attempt to erase Owo from the calculation until February 2025 by Aiyedatiwa in our opinion, is unfair, not equitable, and can cause division in the body politics.”
According to the mainstream Owo group, “Aiyedatiwa must promote things that would bring peace and unity to the state saying the conflict that brought him has polarized the All Progressive Congress (APC), the legislative arm of government, and the people.
“The battle for the mandate was fought by Akeredolu and Aiyedatiwa. It is to the honour of Akeredolu that the ticket must be maintained.
Aiyedatiwa must prioritize what will bring peace and unity to the state. The event in the last few months has polarized the state both in body and spirit.