Cleric Charges Leaders To Prioritize Sacrifice

By  Ayodele Oni

As workers in Ondo state observe Monday, the first working day of the year as prayer session, the Catholic Bishop of Ondo Diocese, Most Rev. Jude Ayodeji Arogundade, has urged political leaders and senior public servants in Ondo State to embrace purpose-driven leadership built on integrity, sacrifice and genuine commitment to the common good.

Arogundade delivered the charge on Monday at the 2026 First Working Day Prayer Meeting held at the Governor’s Office car park, Akure.

He said leadership must translate into real service for citizens and responsible management of public resources.

The bishop described 2026 as a defining year for the state, appealing to both leaders and citizens to make sacrifices that will build institutions, preserve values and secure a better future.

Arogundade challenged office holders to consistently ask whether they were doing their best for the people.

“Our talents and positions are meant to guide the people and unlock development,” he said, adding that public office should be used to make government truly work for the common good.

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who addressed workers at the event, urged public servants and political appointees to put the interest of the state first and work with renewed commitment to the “OUR EASE” agenda.

Aiyedatiwa said ministries, departments and agencies must hit the ground running to meet citizens’ expectations.

The Governor reaffirmed that the 2026 budget would be faithfully implemented, stressing accountability, transparency and strict adherence to targets.

He listed projects executed in the past year including 190 kilometres of road construction and rehabilitation, 280 newly built or renovated classrooms, and improved security support across the state.

Aiyedatiwa added that 112 health centres undergoing renovation or new construction were nearing completion while solar lighting projects would be expanded statewide.

He also highlighted progress on the Ondo Deep Sea Port licence, partnerships for refinery projects and efforts to revive moribund industries such as the Ifon Ceramic Industry and Okitipupa Oil Mill.

The governor said 500 additional Amotekun personnel had been approved to strengthen security while regular promotions, prompt salaries and gradual settlement of gratuities would continue to support workers.