The Akure Youth Democratic Vanguard (AYDV) has praised the Ondo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, for what it described as a calm, factual, and constitutionally sound response to a recent article by newspaper columnist, Festus Adedayo, which criticised the one-year performance of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
In a statement issued by its Coordinator, Abayomi Segun, the group described Ajulo’s response as a bold defence of the truth, noting that his reliance on verifiable facts and figures countered what it called a misleading and outdated account of the current situation in the state.
The group expressed concern over what it termed a disconnect between the columnist’s claims and the reality on ground, especially in Akure, the state capital.
“It is surprising that someone who claims Akure as his home would portray the city as stagnant at a time when residents are witnessing major improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and increasing investor interest,” the statement said.
AYDV pointed to the construction of more than 190 kilometres of roads across Ondo State’s three senatorial districts within the governor’s first year in office. It noted that several township roads and key urban routes in Akure, including areas such as Alagbaka Extension and Igoba Township, have experienced significant upgrades, which it said contradict claims of a lack of development.
On healthcare and education, the group highlighted the renovation and construction of primary healthcare centres across all 18 local government areas. It also cited the expansion of the Orange Health Insurance Scheme, the recruitment of over 2,000 teachers, and the building and rehabilitation of numerous classrooms as clear evidence of progress.
“These are visible achievements that residents can attest to, not mere projections,” the group stated.
The youth organisation also supported Ajulo’s position that some of the claims made in the article were reckless and potentially defamatory, particularly allegations suggesting criminal conduct and claims of a third-term ambition.
According to AYDV, while criticism is an essential part of democracy, it must be based on facts and presented responsibly.
“Public commentary is necessary in a democratic society, but it must not be driven by distortion, emotional language, or unfounded comparisons. Ondo State deserves constructive and informed discourse,” the statement added.
The group further criticised what it described as a tendency to dwell on past administrations while ignoring recent developments, insisting that Akure and other parts of the state have seen improvements in roads, public facilities, and service delivery under the current government.
On the issue of violence during the recent party congress in Idanre, AYDV said the governor acted responsibly by condemning the incident, directing security agencies to investigate, and cooperating with relevant authorities.
The group concluded by urging commentators and public analysts to ensure their opinions reflect current realities and verifiable facts.
“We support the Attorney-General’s defence of lawful governance and factual accuracy. The administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has recorded measurable achievements within one year, and these developments are evident to residents across Ondo State,” the statement said.
Akure Youth Group Backs Ondo Attorney-General, Faults Criticism of Aiyedatiwa’s One-Year Performance
