By Balogun Ajose
Akoko North East Local Government Area of Ondo State rests on two historic pillars—Ikare and Isowopo. Like any balanced political structure, its stability depends on fairness, inclusion, and a shared sense of belonging. However, growing concerns over the concentration of political power in one axis now threaten that balance.
Currently, key political positions in the local government are largely held by individuals from the Ikare axis. These include the senatorial representation, the local government chairman and executive officials, party leadership at the local level, and the commissioner slot. In contrast, the House of Assembly seat remains the only significant political office occupied by the Isowopo axis.
It is obvious that removing this final position from Isowopo would effectively sideline the axis from governance. Such a move, they warn, would not only weaken representation but also deepen feelings of exclusion among communities within Isowopo, including Akunu, Auga, Iboropa, Ikakumo, Ise, and Ugbe.
We should also note that equity in representation is not merely a moral ideal but a practical necessity for peace and stability. When political power is concentrated within a single bloc, it risks silencing other voices and undermining collective progress. Across Ondo State, several local governments have adopted informal rotational arrangements to ensure that no group is consistently marginalized—an approach many believe Akoko North East should emulate.
Many of us can also point to the performance of the sitting lawmaker from Isowopo, emphasizing that the office has been used to serve all 13 wards in the constituency, including those in Ikare. Through legislative influence, the Isowopo axis has facilitated projects, appointments, and interventions that benefit the wider local government, reinforcing its role as a critical stakeholder.
The Assembly seat provides Isowopo with both visibility and bargaining power within the political structure. Stripping the axis of this representation, especially after other major positions are already held by Ikare, could send a troubling message about exclusion and unequal participation in governance.
A sustainable path forward lies in maintaining a fair distribution of power. Allowing Ikare to retain its existing positions while preserving the House of Assembly seat for Isowopo, they say, reflects true power-sharing and responsible leadership.
Ultimately, ensuring that both Ikare and Isowopo have meaningful representation is seen as essential to fostering unity, strengthening democratic participation, and giving all residents of Akoko North East confidence that the system works for everyone.
