Akure — In a heated debate hosted by Channels Television, the two frontrunners in the upcoming Ondo State governorship election, Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Agboola Ajayi of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), sparred over their proposed minimum wages for workers.
Aiyedatiwa asserted that his administration would maintain a minimum wage of N73,000, a figure he claimed is supported by the state’s workforce. “Our workers are happy we’re paying N73,000,” he said, emphasizing his commitment to their financial wellbeing.
In response, Ajayi criticized Aiyedatiwa’s proposal, vowing to raise the minimum wage to N76,000 if elected. “Workers will be happier when I pay them N76,000,” he argued, citing his extensive political background as a former local government chairman and Deputy Governor as evidence of his capability to lead.
Ajayi also took aim at the current structure of local governance, expressing his intention to dissolve the Ministry of Local Governments, which he labeled a “criminal usurpation of power.” He pledged to restore autonomy to local governments, a move that Aiyedatiwa contested, asserting that the Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission should continue to oversee council elections until any constitutional changes are enacted.
Turning to regional issues, Ajayi criticized the perceived lack of development in Ilaje, an oil-rich area in Ondo State. “There is no development in Ilaje communities, even though the governor hails from there. Within two years, I will implement policies to transform these areas,” he promised, seeking to highlight his vision for the state’s progress.
The debate also touched on electoral integrity, with Ajayi calling for the redeployment of the state’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mrs. Toyin Babalola, to ensure a fair election scheduled for November 16. Aiyedatiwa dismissed Ajayi’s demand, interpreting it as a sign of his rival’s fear of losing, and suggested it was merely an excuse in anticipation of a potential defeat.
As the election approaches, the clash of ideologies and promises between the two candidates sets the stage for a contentious race, with the future of Ondo State’s governance hanging in the balance.
