The Imade Development Association (IDA), a socio-cultural group representing the indigenes of Owo community in Ondo State, has appealed to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to select his deputy from the Owo community.

The group believes that this decision would be a tribute to the late ex-Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, who hailed from Owo.

IDA stated that choosing a deputy from Owo would serve as compensation for the untimely death of Akeredolu, who recently passed away in Germany after battling prostate cancer. The group expressed their sorrow over Akeredolu’s demise and emphasized that neglecting their request could further polarize the state along ethnic and political lines.

During a press briefing, the Chairman of IDA, Segun Ogunbadeniyi, along with the Secretary, Femi Fadaisi, and the Publicity Secretary, Julius Adesola, asserted that the community would persist until Aiyedatiwa appoints an Owo indigene as deputy governor.

Ogunbadeniyi, speaking on behalf of the group, stated that it is crucial to safeguard the interests and aspirations of Owo, particularly after Akeredolu’s passing. The group believes that the joint ticket for the APC or PDP, expiring in February 2025, should be represented by Owo/Ilaje. They view any exclusion of Owo from this calculation as unfair and potentially divisive.

The IDA highlighted several prominent Owo indigenes who they believe are qualified for the position of deputy governor. The suggested names include Hon. Niran-Sule Akinsuyi, who stood alongside Akeredolu during the 2016 elections, the Majority Leader of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Oluwole Ogunmolasuyi, Mr. Zach Adetula, and Chief Jamiu Ekungba.

According to IDA, selecting from this list would be a fair arrangement for all stakeholders, considering the joint efforts of Akeredolu and Aiyedatiwa in their political journey.