By Prince Oriade Wellington Crown
The recent sombre atmosphere in Ondo State following the conclusion of the final burial rites of the former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu last week is still resonating within the minds of all Ondo State indigenes. The outpouring of emotions from different citizens both high and low was a clear testament to the larger-than-life personality of the dearly beloved Aketi.
With the recent influx of notable Nigerians into the rustic town of Owo it comes as no surprise that His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is billed to pay a condolence visit to the bereaved Akeredolu family in Owo on Wednesday 28 February, 2024. This comes as no surprise as the late Aketi shared a very colourful history with the President.
As the citizens of Owo and indeed the entire Ondo State get ready to play host to the Number 1 citizen of Nigeria one cannot help but wish that the presidential visit was happening under more cheery circumstances. But it is without a doubt that the President’s visit is a thoughtful and magnanimous gesture which should offer the Akeredolus a measure of comfort.
Unsurprisingly some jaded political figures have begun making covert moves to use the presidential visit to score some cheap political points in order to jumpstart their limp political careers. We understand their desperation in using whatever means to further their agenda but this particular instance is one that demands for due decorum and a good dose of empathy. Let no so-called “anointed” political figure use this visit to assail the collective senses of the people of Ondo State with fake empathy like cheap vulgar perfume. Aketi was a great man. We should allow the President pay his respects without any unnecessary distractions. That is the noble thing to do.
To all those facsimile pseudo contenders, it is time to play by the rules and test your popularity and acceptability across the length and breadth of Ondo State. Do the rounds and prove your political value. There is no problem with that as long as it is done within identified boundaries. Right now Ondo State deserves the very best. Ondo State needs to heal and move forward in every area of life. We owe it to the citizens.
Welcome to Ondo State, Mr. President!!!
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