- “Immortalize Akeredolu by Completing His Vision,” Babajide Urges Governor
- Ondo Government Defends Progress, Criticizes Akeredolu’s Son Over Remarks
Babajide Akeredolu, son of the late Ondo State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, has called on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to prioritize completing key projects initiated by his father. He argued that fulfilling these initiatives is the most genuine way to honor the late governor’s legacy.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Monday in Akure, Babajide criticized the state government for naming an incomplete project after his father, describing it as “premature and insincere.” He also expressed disappointment over the government’s failure to involve the Akeredolu family in a memorial lecture organized in honor of the late governor.
“It was shocking to learn about the state-organized event through social media just three days before it was held. No member of the Akeredolu family was invited,” he lamented. “Basic courtesy and protocol demand that the family of the deceased be informed and included in such events.”
Babajide, a former head of the Project Performance and Implementation Monitoring Unit, listed several projects requiring urgent attention, including the proposed upgrade of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic to a university, the completion of the Onyearugbulem Junction flyover in Akure, and addressing abandoned road projects such as Ijoka Road and the SIB bypass.
“True immortality lies in completing these projects and ensuring their functionality,” Babajide stated.
Government Reacts
Responding to the allegations, a senior government official, speaking anonymously, dismissed Babajide’s claims as unfounded. The official accused Babajide of disrespecting the office of the governor and criticized his family for alleged public hostility towards Governor Aiyedatiwa.
“Babajide’s mother, the former First Lady, has openly embarrassed the governor and deputy governor on several occasions. Babajide’s tone reflects this same lack of respect,” the official said.
The source also accused Babajide of mismanaging his former role under his father’s administration, which they claimed contributed to delays in the same projects he now demands be expedited.
“The road projects Babajide mentioned were abandoned for nearly two years under his leadership. Governor Aiyedatiwa has since mobilized contractors back to the sites, with significant progress made over the past year,” the official asserted.
The government also urged Babajide to return any state-owned properties allegedly taken during his tenure, calling for him to focus on constructive dialogue rather than public outbursts.
Despite the tension, Babajide reiterated his call for collaboration, urging the government to complete his father’s vision and restore confidence among the people of Ondo State.
