Ondo Guber: Police cautions against fake news

The police in Ondo have warned fake news purveyors and other mischief makers ahead of the state’s November 16 off-cycle governorship election. The police stated that such action could cause a breakdown of law and order as the state prepared for the gubernatorial election. “The police command emphasises the importance of verifying information before sharing or reposting, as constructive engagement is essential for fostering a peaceful environment during this pivotal time in the history of the state,” the police said in a statement by its spokesperson Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya. The police said it had observed two trending old videos and misleading content being shared with intent to incite unrest and violence. While explaining that one of the videos depicting flooding in Ore, Odigbo Local Government Area of the state, was “irresponsibly circulated”, the police added that the action also threatened the integrity of democracy and could deprive the political parties of a level-playing field in the forthcoming election. “Such actions are not only misleading but pose significant risks, especially during this crucial electoral period, as the spread of misinformation can undermine public trust, incite violence, jeopardise public safety, and threaten the integrity of our democracy—ultimately depriving the people of a level playing field for the exercise of their civic rights and responsibilities. “In a similar event, a story alleging the amputation of fingers from a corpse at a mortuary in Ajowa-Akoko was found to be false, as confirmed by the divisional police officer who visited the morgue,” the police said. The police urged the electorate to remain critical of the information they encounter and distance themselves from those who seek to exploit the current situation for personal gain. “Finally, while assuring the citizens of the force’s readiness, in collaboration with sister security and safety agencies, to ensure free, fair, and safe elections, the commissioner of police, CP Abayomi Oladipo Peter, wishes to state that the command under his watch will not stand idly by while agents of calumny operate,” it added. The police stressed that they would not hesitate to respond appropriately and within the law to threats to the peace of the election. Eighteen political parties have fielded gubernatorial candidates for the upcoming election.

Minimum Wage: Aiyedatiwa announces N73k

The Governor of Ondo State, Hon Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has announced the implementation of N73, 000 minimum wage for workers, stressing his administration’s commitment to the welfare of the people of the State. The Governor made the announcement during the flag off of the Ondo central senatorial district leg of the gubernatorial campaign of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo City on Saturday ahead of the November 16 election in the State. According to the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, Aiyedatiwa said despite the fact that the federal government approved N70, 000 as the new minimum wage, Ondo will go a step further by paying N73, 000 to its workers. Governor Aiyedatiwa addressed the large crowd of supporters, urging them to convert their backing into votes for the APC to ensure the continuity of developmental initiatives across the state. He stated, “On November 16, I urge everyone gathered here and those who are not present to convert your support into votes for the APC to ensure the continuation of our significant progress in the state.“ Based on reports and my personal observations, I am confident that you all want this administration to continue beyond 2024. I see the love and appreciation from you, and I do not take it for granted. The best way to demonstrate this love is to vote for continuity, which will bring even more dividends of democracy.” The Governor highlighted the achievements of his administration over the past 10 months, stating, “During my time in office, we have initiated several important projects, including those started by the late governor. In agriculture, we’ve taken significant strides, boosting food production across the state. We’ve also approved over a billion naira for land clearing and launched various rural road construction projects to facilitate our farmers’ activities and improve productivity in rural areas.” The governor reaffirmed his dedication to enhancing security, the health sector, education, and youth empowerment. He noted that his administration’s efforts have made doctors more willing to stay in the state instead of leaving for opportunities elsewhere, a trend known as the “Japa” syndrome. To address this, he mentioned that his administration has increased doctors’ salaries and allowances. Engr. Ade Adetimehin, the State APC Chairman, also addressed the crowd, urging them to vote for the party to maintain its power. He emphasized Governor Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to infrastructural development across the state and reminded party members of the importance of safeguarding their voter cards, which are essential for ensuring the party’s continued leadership. Hon. Abiola Makinde, the House of Representatives member for Ondo East/West federal constituency, who is the campaign’s Director-General, praised Governor Aiyedatiwa as a proven and reliable leader who emerged through a transparent primary process. He encouraged supporters to return to their local communities and mobilize voters for the Governor, stressing the need for a strong turnout in the coming election. In her remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Lola Fagbemi, highlighted Governor Aiyedatiwa’s significant accomplishments, including timely salary payments, road construction and rehabilitation and funding for WAEC fees for public schools. Former APC governorship aspirant, Chief Olusola Oke, called on party members to return to their respective units to secure votes for Governor Aiyedatiwa, adding that grassroots mobilization is crucial for the party’s success and urging every member to be fully committed to achieving victory on November 16. Hon. Kolade Akinjo, a former House of Representatives member for Ilaje Ese-Odo Federal Constituency and former PDP gubernatorial aspirant, hinged his decision to join APC on Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership style and development strides. The senatorial district campaign continues on Monday at Ikare Akoko for Ondo North Senatorial District.