By Comrade Segun Iseyemi
Every administration is ultimately judged not only by the policies it implements but also by its commitment to accountability, institutional discipline, fairness, and respect for due process. In Ondo State, concerns being expressed by some members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and other stakeholders regarding developments at the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) deserve careful attention.
The civil service remains the engine room of government, providing continuity and administrative expertise.
However, civil servants are expected to operate within established administrative structures, while elected political leaders retain responsibility for policy direction and overall governance.
Any perception that this balance has shifted can raise questions about institutional accountability.
One issue that has generated discussion is the retrieval of an official SUBEB vehicle from the immediate past Chairman of the Board, Rt. Hon. Victor Olabimtan.
While government assets are expected to be returned upon the expiration of an official’s tenure, some stakeholders believe the process could have been handled with greater sensitivity, considering Olabimtan’s status as a former Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly and a respected APC leader.
There have also been public concerns regarding reports about an official vehicle allegedly assigned to Princess Abike Bayo-Ilawole during her previous service at the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC).
Those raising the issue have called for clarification and, where necessary, the application of public service regulations in a transparent and consistent manner.
Addressing such concerns openly would help strengthen public confidence in government institutions.
Some party members have equally questioned the continued influence attributed to the SUBEB Permanent Secretary, citing past political events and expressing concerns about perceptions within the ruling party.
Whether these perceptions are accurate or not, they have become part of ongoing political discussions and, in the interest of unity, deserve appropriate attention.
Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has consistently pledged to lead an administration anchored on fairness, inclusiveness, and accountability.
Upholding these principles requires that all public officials, regardless of position, remain subject to established rules and oversight. Strong institutions thrive when accountability is applied fairly and consistently.
Another issue being raised by some APC stakeholders is the belief that many loyal party members who contributed significantly to the party’s electoral success are yet to be adequately considered for appointments.
According to these stakeholders, this has created disappointment among sections of the party and may affect morale at the grassroots.
Concerns have also been expressed over the manner in which some appointments and disengagements have been handled.
Some party leaders believe that improved communication and consultation with affected officials would strengthen confidence and reinforce mutual respect within the administration.
As Governor Aiyedatiwa continues to consolidate his administration, there is an opportunity to address these concerns through openness, fairness, and adherence to due process.
Doing so would further strengthen public confidence, promote party unity, and reinforce the administration’s commitment to transparent governance.
Ultimately, effective governance is sustained not by personalities but by strong institutions, accountability, and equal application of the law.
Addressing legitimate concerns objectively will serve the interests of the government, the ruling party, and the people of Ondo State.
— Comrade Segun Iseyemi, an indigene of Ondo State, writes from Lagos State
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