THE POLITICAL MARGINALIZATION OF ONDO WEST CONSTITUENCY 2: A CLARION CALL FOR IMMEDIATE CONCERN AND ACTION
INTRODUCTION
Since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, the promise of equitable governance has slowly unraveled in certain regions.
One such neglected area is Ondo West Constituency 2, a community of industrious citizens, rich cultural heritage, and historical relevance. Yet, despite its vital contributions to Ondo Kingdom and beyond, it has persistently been sidelined in critical areas of political representation and appointments.
This article is both a strategic exposition and a rallying call to all stakeholders, traditional leaders, political actors, civil society, and grassroots advocates. It demands an urgent redress of the political imbalance and calls for inclusive governance that truly reflects the diversity and potential of the Ondo Kingdom.
ONDO KINGDOM: UNITED IN CULTURE, DIVIDED IN REPRESENTATION
Ondo Kingdom remains a beacon of Yoruba culture, united by ancestry, language, and values. However, its political structure, divided for administrative convenience, has resulted in unequal representation:
Ondo West Constituency 1 – Urban/City-centric Wards: 1, 3, 7, 9, 10, 11
Ondo West Constituency 2 – Predominantly agrarian Wards: 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 12
Ondo East Constituency – Largely rural and semi-urban
While these divisions aimed at fostering even development, the reality tells a different story. Political dividends have been overwhelmingly tilted toward Ondo West Constituency 1 and Ondo East, leaving Constituency 2 grossly underrepresented.
A RECORD OF MARGINALIZATION: THE DATA TELLS THE TRUTH
A. High-Ranking State Offices
Dr. Olusegun Mimiko (Ondo West 1): Former Governor, Minister, Secretary to the State Government, Commissioner for Health
B. Senate Representation
Sen. Gbenga Ogunniya (Ondo West 1): Served 12 years in the Nigerian Senate
C. Speakership of Ondo State House of Assembly
Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji (Ondo East): Current Speaker
D. House of Representatives (MHR) History
Year Representative Constituency
1999–2003 – Hon. Dejo Akinnifesi Ondo East
2003–2007 Hon. Soledayo Ogunniyi Ondo East
2007–2011- Dr. Temitayo Fawehinmi Ondo West 1
2011–2019 – Hon. Joseph Akinlaja Ondo East
2019–Present – Hon. Abiola Makinde, PhD Ondo West 1
✅ MHR Tally Since 1999:
Ondo East: 16 years
Ondo West 1: 12 years
Ondo West 2: 0 years
E. Federal Appointments and Boards
Recent federal appointments (Commissioners, Directors, Board Members) have exclusively gone to individuals from Ondo East or Ondo West 1.
F. Commissioners in Ondo State Executive Council
Repeated key appointments:
Dr. Dayo Adeyanju
Chief Yele Ogundipe
Hon. Lola Fagbemi
(All from Ondo West 1)
Ondo West Constituency 2 has produced zero federal/state commissioners, special advisers, MHRs, or senators in 26 years.
This is no longer oversight, it is entrenched exclusion.
THE COST OF EXCLUSION
The long-standing marginalization of Ondo West Constituency 2 carries devastating consequences:
Stunted infrastructure and poor development
Absence in policy and legislative influence
Eroded political morale among the youth
Neglect of qualified leaders and community voices
When a region that contributes actively to election victories is repeatedly ignored, it creates resentment, apathy, and undermines democratic values.
JUSTICE, EQUITY, AND BALANCED REPRESENTATION: THE WAY FORWARD
Equity is not a privilege, it is a right. To ensure democratic stability and inclusivity in Ondo Kingdom:
- Political parties must zone the 2027 House of Representatives ticket to Ondo West Constituency 2.
- Appointments to state and federal offices must reflect the diversity of the kingdom.
- The electorate must demand fairness through organized advocacy and the ballot.
- Traditional institutions must champion balanced representation as custodians of justice.
A CANDIDACY OF COMPETENCE AND COURAGE: DR. MICHAEL AKINTOMIDE AJILO
Amidst the call for justice rises a capable son of the soil, Dr. Michael Akintomide Ajilo, a symbol of both competence and commitment.
✅ Professional Excellence – Esteemed medical doctor, researcher, academic
✅ Leadership Legacy – Founder, MADE Foundation; passionate community mobilizer
✅ National Policy Exposure – Experience in health systems, governance, and national advocacy
✅ Grassroots Connection – Deeply rooted in the daily realities of his people
Dr. Ajilo represents more than a candidate; he represents redemption for a people long excluded.
CONCLUSION: THE TIME IS NOW
This is more than a campaign, it is a generational justice movement.
The people of Ondo West Constituency 2 have waited long enough. The evidence is irrefutable. The marginalization is undeniable. The moment is historic.
2027 must be the year Ondo West 2 rises.
Let Dr. Michael Akintomide Ajilo be the symbol of that rise.
For justice.
For equity.
For representation.
Support Dr. Michael Akintomide Ajilo for Member, House of Representatives, 2027.
Ondo West Constituency 2 cannot wait any longer.
Ajilo2027 #OndoWest2DeservesMore #JusticeForConstituency2
©️ AJILO MEDIA TEAM
