ONDO 2024: YPP Urges Residents To Reject Political Commercialization

PRESS RELEASE

5th July, 2024

Protocol

The Young Progressives Party (YPP) in Ondo State has taken note with grave concern the unfolding events surrounding the upcoming gubernatorial election in our dear state. Recent developments indicate a troubling trend where the incumbent government is leveraging on its power of incumbency and control over state resources to undermine opposition parties through what can only be described as a political merchandising strategy. This calculated move is designed to weaken and absorb opposition structures, thereby compromising the integrity of our democratic process.

At the forefront of this disturbing narrative is the purported collapse of the Socialist Democratic Party (SDP) within the incumbent’s fold. This market place politics does not only betray the principles of fair competition but also undermines the fundamental tenets of democracy that our great nation was founded upon. The Young Progressives Party views such actions as contrary to every democratic ethos and a dangerous precedent that threatens to erode the very foundation of governance in our state.

It is regrettable and deeply concerning that opposition politics in Ondo State is being reduced to a commercial venture, where principles are sacrificed on the altar of expediency and power. Our founding fathers, who envisioned a Nigeria where late astute political gladiators like Chief Obafemi Awolowo, MKO Abiola and Pa Adekunle Ajasin could rise above partisan interests to champion the cause of the people, would be disheartened by the current state of affairs, supposing they are still here with us.

Chief Obafemi Awolowo once said, “The worst form of evil is democracy without liberty.” In these words, we find a powerful reminder of the need to stand unwaveringly for true democracy. The commercialization of our political landscape threatens to strip away our liberties and diminish the value of our democratic rights.

The Young Progressives Party wishes to emphasize unequivocally that the practice of commercializing opposition politics is not just regrettable but reprehensible. It serves as a catalyst for totalitarianism and retrogression in governance, stifling the voices of dissent and subverting the will of the people. Elections are meant to be a solemn exercise where citizens freely choose their leaders based on merit, integrity, and vision for development.

As a party committed to the ideals of democracy and good governance, the YPP reaffirms its unwavering dedication to the people of Ondo State. We remain resolute in our mission to offer a viable alternative rooted in serious, people-oriented, and development-driven governance. Our candidacy in the upcoming gubernatorial election on the 16th of November represents not just a political ambition but a solemn pledge to uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and inclusivity.

We call upon all citizens of Ondo State to remain vigilant and steadfast in the defense of our democratic values. The future of our state and the progress of our people depend on our collective ability to resist attempts to subvert the democratic process. Let us unite in solidarity to ensure that the upcoming election is conducted with fairness, transparency, and respect for the democratic rights of all citizens.

Chief Obafemi Awolowo also said, “It is not life that matters, but the courage you bring to it’ With these words, we are reminded of the courage needed to defend our democracy. The Young Progressives Party stands firm in its commitment to lead Ondo State towards a future where governance serves the best interests of all its people, irrespective of political affiliations. Together, we can build a state where opportunity thrives, justice prevails, and prosperity is shared by all.

Signed
Ayodeji Oluleye
Director General
Akinmurele/ Ayo Obe 2024 Gubernatorial Election Campaign Council
Ondo State