A socio-cultural group, Imade Development Association (IDA), has appealed to the Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, to consider appointing a deputy from Owo to compensate for the loss of Rotimi Akeredolu, an indigene of the town.
Expressing grief over Akeredolu’s passing, the group cautioned against any action that might exacerbate division among the people along ethnic and political lines.
The group emphasized that Owo, as an ethnic group, has a significant stake in presenting a candidate for the Deputy Governorship position.
The group underscored the importance of safeguarding Owo’s interests and perspectives in the unfolding developments following the demise of Akeredolu. 
Speaking on behalf of the group, its Chairman, Segun Ogunbadeniyi, said, “In our opinion, the joint ticket that expires in February 2025 is Owo/Ilaje.
“We do not understand any calculation outside of it. Whoever picks the ticket of APC or PDP next year can, therefore, decide which zone to produce the Deputy Governor.
“Any attempt to erase Owo from the calculation until February 2025 by Aiyedatiwa in our opinion, is unfair, not equitable, and can cause division in the body politics.
“Aiyedatiwa must promote things that would bring peace and unity to the state, saying the conflict that brought him has polarized the All Progressive Congress (APC), the legislative arm of government, and the people.
“The battle for the mandate was fought by Akeredolu and Aiyedatiwa. It is to the honour of Akeredolu that the ticket must be maintained.
“Aiyedatiwa must prioritize what will bring peace and unity to the state. The event in the last few months has polarized the state both in body and spirit.
“For us in Owo, we are ready to work with him and bring about unity and prosperity to the state.
” As a kingdom, history has shown that Owo has been making sacrifices for Yoruba nation and Ondo State, and Akeredolu’s tireless efforts to protect Nigeria and Yoruba nation came to us at great cost.
“Many of our people have suffered loss and hardship because of this attack. Our sacrifices must be recognized and honoured. Changing the mandate will amount to another terrorist attack on Owo.
“The issue on the ground should be approached with empathy, respect, and transparency to show that Aiyedatiwa is committed to building bridges and finding common ground with all stakeholders.”
The group chairman said prominent Owo indigenes should be considered for the Deputy Governorship slot.
He said these include Hon. Niran-Sule Akinsuyi, who was in the trenches with Akeredolu during the 2016 elections, the leader of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Oluwole Ogunmolasuyi, Zach Adetula, and Chief Jamiu Ekungba.
Ogunbadeniyi added, “Picking from this list will be a fair deal for all stakeholders.
“The current situation is a joint ticket of Akeredolu and Aiyedatiwa, which they assiduously worked for. Picking from this list will be an honour to the late governor and a fair deal to the Owo kingdom.
“Political equations are delicate, and any perceived unfair treatment of a particular group can lead to tension and division within the state, which could cause further friction and mistrust between different groups in the state.
“The governor needs to be mindful of the potential consequences of his actions and to take steps to address the people’s concerns.”
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