By BTO PARTNERS
Only the enemies of Ondo State in particular, and Nigeria at large.
Let’s be clear about the people of concern.
The Honourable Minister for Interior was first elected into the House of Representatives in 2019 on the platform of the APC. He defeated the AA candidate preferred by Governor Odunayo Akeredolu but that is a story for another day.
During that period, opponents and detractors in the now dead AA and the PDP called him unprintable names. Even some of us within the APC witnessed those attacks. Yet the young man remained focused on infrastructure, empowerment, employment, wealth creation, healthcare, and education.
He performed exceptionally well. His economic empowerment projects and skill-acquisition initiatives set a new standard. Historically, the House of Representatives seat in Akoko North Federal Constituency is rotated between Akoko North West and Akoko North East. But his performance broke that tradition, he became the first politician to win a second term purely on merit.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu noticed his brilliance, creativity, leadership role in the Gbajabiamila speakership contest, and his outstanding contributions as Chairman, House Committee on NDDC. It was no surprise when he was appointed Minister of Interior.
Today, the Ministry of Interior has undergone a transformative digital evolution, meeting international standards. The ministry now reflects the true spirit of the Renewed Hope Agenda. He has rewritten the narrative entirely.
Back to the Question: Who Is Afraid of Hon. BTO?
Before throwing around baseless accusations and childish propaganda, online baby politicians must first understand the political history of Ondo State governorship elections since 1999, pls verify from your leaders.
1999
Chief Adefarati (AD, Ondo North) vs. Segun Agagu (PDP, Ondo South).
Adefarati won.
2003
Adefarati (AD), Segun Agagu (PDP), and Jimoh Ibrahim (ANPP).
North vs. South.
PDP took power through massive rigging and intimidation.
2007
Ondo Central vs. Ondo South.
Ademola Adegoroye (AC, Akure), Dr. Olusegun Mimiko (LP, Ondo Central) vs. Olusegun Agagu (PDP, South).
Mimiko won in court after two years of Agagu’s illegal stay.
2012
Akeredolu (ACN, Ondo North), Mimiko (LP, Central), Olusola Oke (PDP, South).
Mimiko won a second term — the first Ondo governor to spend 8 full years.
2016
Akeredolu (APC, North) vs. Jegede (PDP, Central) vs. Oke (AD, South).
Akeredolu won despite heavy political turbulence.
2021
Akeredolu (APC), Eyitayo (PDP), and Agboola Ajayi (ZLP).
Akeredolu won again.
2024–2025 Transition
After Akeredolu’s passing, Lucky Ayedatiwa became Governor and contested the 2025 election against Agboola Ajayi both from the South.
Ayedatiwa won all 18 LGAs.The victory was driven by Tinubu’s popularity and key support of Hon Bunmi Tunji Ojo and other stakeholders.
The next governorship election will be interesting because the incumbent is constitutionally barred from running again. Ondo State desperately needs a productive, brilliant, resourceful, young leader who can lift the state beyond crawling level despite its enormous natural resources.
Unfortunately, the social media space is filled with political novices spreading propaganda, insults, and pull-him-down syndrome.
But history is clear:
There has never been a zoning arrangement in Ondo State governorship elections.
Any capable, competent, visionary candidate from ANY zone can become governor.
It is time to support a resourceful, smart, ebullient, goal-driven politician who truly understands development and without mincing words,Hon Bunmi Tunji-Ojo possesses all it takes to govern Ondo State.
Next governor?
Anybody from any part of Ondo State as long as ability, competency, and value lead the way.
©️BTO PARTNERS
