Group Says Ondo People Will Not Adopt ‘Emi Lokan’ Mantra During Governorship Poll, Insists People Must Be Allowed To Choose Leader

By Ayodele Oni

A pressure group,Ondo Redemption Front, (ORF), has told political parties which are preparing for this year’s Governorship election in the state that ‘Emi lokan’ mindset will not work or be tolerated in the forthcoming election.

‘Emi lokan’ slogan used by President Bola Tinubu during his Presidential campaign tends to impose candidates rather than allow the people pick their choice among the contestants.

The Chairman of the ORF, Ayo Ologun, while speaking in Akure on Thursday also warned that it would reject any attempt by political parties to impose candidates on the people.

Ologun, noted that the next Governorship Election in the State would provide the avenue for the people to choose leaders that will steer the State toward sustained growth and development.

According to him, endorsing or imposing candidate by any of the political parties could derail the seamless and democratic process aimed at selecting the best candidate for the election.

“As we countdown to the elections, it will not be business as usual. Nobody should see the coming election as a right. The “Emi lokan’ mindset will not work or be tolerated in the forthcoming election.

“The people of the State will not be swayed by mundane things that stem from propaganda but will be more concerned about the antecedents of the aspirants, their track records, character, record in public service, and sign of empathy to the people they seek to govern.

“In our pursuit of a redeemed and transformed Ondo State, we recognize the importance of collaborating with various stakeholders, from civil society organizations to the media, and most importantly, the citizens themselves

“As part of our commitment to fostering positive change, the Ondo Redemption Front is gearing up to mobilize massive citizens’ participation ahead of the 2024 Governorship election in Ondo State.

“Our objective is clear, to empower the people with information, encourage active engagement in the democratic process, and foster an environment where every citizen’s voice is heard.

“We firmly believe that the cornerstone of a prosperous Ondo State lies in the election of competent and visionary leadership. The 2024 Governorship election presents an opportunity for the people of Ondo State to choose leaders who will steer the state toward sustained growth and development.

“The Ondo Redemption Front is committed to playing an active role in this process, advocating for transparency, fairness, and the election of leaders with the best interests of the state at heart.

“As a group, the Ondo Redemption Front is committed to ensuring that the state remains on a trajectory of progress, irrespective of the changes in leadership.

“We are resolute in our determination to hold the Ondo State Government, now under the leadership of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, accountable for its actions and policies that impact the lives of the people.

“Our primary focus is on good governance and development. We believe that the people of Ondo State deserve leadership that prioritizes their welfare, infrastructure, education, healthcare, and overall well-being.”