By Kayode Olabanji
A strong call for justice and balance has echoed across Ondo Kingdom as political stakeholders from Ondo East Local Government Area demand fairness in political representation between Ondo East and Ondo West.
A prominent stakeholder, Honourable John Ogunmoyero, made the call in a statement made available to Weekend Hope, decrying the persistent marginalisation of Ondo East in the sharing of key political positions, especially at the federal level.
According to him, for over three decades, Ondo West has dominated major political offices, leaving Ondo East largely underrepresented. He described the situation as unfair, unhealthy, and detrimental to the unity and development of the entire kingdom.
“Ondo East is not inferior in any way. We have competent sons and daughters who can represent our people effectively at all levels. What we are asking for is fairness, not favour,” Ogunmoyero said.
He noted that the imbalance in representation has also reflected in the distribution of developmental projects, with more federal presence, road networks, schools, and healthcare facilities concentrated in Ondo West, while Ondo East continues to lag behind.
Ogunmoyero described the situation as a breach of the spirit of unity that binds the two local governments together, stressing that political equity remains the foundation for lasting peace and progress in the kingdom.
“If we truly believe in justice and fairness, then power must rotate. That is the only way every part of Ondo Kingdom can feel included and represented,” he added.
The stakeholder, therefore, urged political parties and leaders at all levels to embrace fairness and inclusivity in their nomination processes ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He also appealed to both the state and federal governments to ensure that developmental projects are evenly distributed across the two local governments.
“Equal development is a right, not a privilege. No part of Ondo Kingdom should be left behind. The time has come to correct this historic imbalance and give Ondo East its rightful place in both political and developmental affairs,” he stated.
Ogunmoyero reaffirmed the resolve of the people of Ondo East to work together in unity, insisting that 2027 must mark a turning point in the political history of the Ondo Kingdom.