Follow Us on Google
The Ondo Redemption Front (ORF) has called on the Ondo State Government to strengthen accountability and ensure that increased revenues and budgetary provisions translate into measurable improvements in infrastructure and public services.
Chairman of the group, Ayodeji Ologun, who spoke at a press briefing in Lagos, said recent developments in the state’s tertiary institutions, finances and public services underscored the need for stronger coordination and engagement between government and stakeholders.
Ologun cited the recent industrial action by workers in state-owned universities, including Adekunle Ajasin University, Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology and the University of Medical Sciences, saying the development highlighted the need for sustained dialogue with organised labour.
He acknowledged the subsequent intervention by the state government and reported agreement with university unions on implementation of the Federal Government-ASUU salary structure and related allowances.
He, however, said the Joint Action Congress of Ondo State Tertiary Institutions had raised concerns over the agreement, including its coverage and outstanding demands.
The ORF urged the government to clarify areas of disagreement and ensure that legitimate commitments reached with the affected unions were implemented.
“Governance cannot operate on a cycle of crisis, protest, announcement and temporary settlement,” Ologun said.
He advocated the establishment of a permanent mechanism for government-labour engagement to prevent disputes from escalating into industrial action.
The group also called for greater transparency in the implementation of government financial decisions, including approved expenditures and salary-related policies affecting political appointees.
Ologun said where implementation of an approved decision was delayed, government should clearly explain any financial, legal or administrative constraints responsible.
He said increased federal allocations and other fiscal resources placed greater responsibility on the state government to demonstrate improvements in infrastructure and public services.
Other News
The group also referenced the state government’s proposal to increase the 2026 budget from N524.411 billion to N769.384 billion, with additional funds reportedly targeted at roads, water, healthcare and other infrastructure.
It urged the government to publish details of major capital projects, including their costs, funding sources, contractors, timelines and expected outcomes.
On infrastructure, the ORF cited the Akure flyover project, saying major projects should be executed within transparent procurement and accountability frameworks.
The group also demanded improved healthcare delivery through adequate staffing, medicines, equipment, emergency services and functional facilities across the state.
On education, it urged the government to ensure that increased funding translated into better conditions for workers and students, improved infrastructure and implementation of agreed salaries and allowances.
The ORF also called for a proactive security strategy for vulnerable communities and farming areas, as well as improved water supply in Akure and other major population centres.
It raised concerns over reports of persistent offensive odour in parts of Akure and urged relevant authorities to identify its source and take appropriate action.
The group listed six key demands, including full implementation of agreements with tertiary institution unions, establishment of a permanent government-labour engagement mechanism, publication of details of major capital projects, improved healthcare delivery, a proactive security strategy and a roadmap for rehabilitation and expansion of water infrastructure.
Ologun also urged residents to participate actively in the electoral process by registering where necessary, obtaining their Permanent Voter Cards and assessing the records and policies of candidates before voting peacefully.
He said the state required a governance system capable of planning ahead, implementing policies and producing measurable results.
“The responsibility of the government is not simply to make announcements. It is to turn decisions into results, resources into development and policies into tangible improvements in the lives of the people,” Ologun said.
