The Ondo Redemption Front (ORF) has called on the Ondo State Government to prioritize accountability and ensure that increased revenues and budgetary provisions lead to measurable improvements in infrastructure and public services. This appeal was made by the group's Chairman, Ayodeji Ologun, during a press briefing in Lagos. Ologun emphasized the need for stronger coordination and engagement between the government and stakeholders, citing recent developments in the state's tertiary institutions, finances, and public services.
Ologun specifically mentioned the recent industrial action by workers in state-owned universities, including Adekunle Ajasin University, Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, and the University of Medical Sciences. He acknowledged the state government's intervention and reported agreement with university unions on the implementation of the Federal Government-ASUU salary structure and related allowances. However, he noted that the Joint Action Congress of Ondo State Tertiary Institutions had raised concerns over the agreement, including its coverage and outstanding demands.
The ORF urged the government to clarify areas of disagreement and ensure that legitimate commitments reached with the affected unions are implemented. Ologun advocated for the establishment of a permanent mechanism for government-labour engagement to prevent disputes from escalating into industrial action. This, he believes, will promote sustained dialogue and improve the overall working conditions in the state's tertiary institutions.
The group also called for greater transparency in the implementation of government financial decisions, including approved expenditures and salary-related policies affecting political appointees. Ologun emphasized that where implementation of an approved decision is delayed, the government should clearly explain any financial, legal, or administrative constraints responsible. This, he believes, will promote accountability and transparency in governance.
The ORF referenced the state government's proposal to increase the 2026 budget from N524.411 billion to N769.384 billion, with additional funds targeted at roads, water, healthcare, and other infrastructure. The group urged the government to publish details of major capital projects, including their costs, funding sources, contractors, timelines, and expected outcomes. This, they believe, will ensure transparency and accountability in the management of public funds.
On infrastructure, the ORF cited the Akure flyover project and emphasized the need for major projects to be executed within transparent procurement and accountability frameworks. The group also demanded improved healthcare delivery through adequate staffing, medicines, equipment, emergency services, and functional facilities across the state. Additionally, they urged the government to ensure that increased funding translates into better conditions for workers and students, improved infrastructure, and implementation of agreed salaries and allowances.
The ORF listed six key demands, including full implementation of agreements with tertiary institution unions, establishment of a permanent government-labour engagement mechanism, publication of details of major capital projects, improved healthcare delivery, a proactive security strategy, and a roadmap for rehabilitation and expansion of water infrastructure. Ologun also urged residents to participate actively in the electoral process and called for a governance system capable of planning ahead, implementing policies, and producing measurable results.
Key points
- The Ondo Redemption Front urges the Ondo State Government to prioritize accountability and ensure increased revenues translate into improvements in infrastructure and public services.
- The group advocates for the establishment of a permanent mechanism for government-labour engagement to prevent disputes from escalating into industrial action.
- The ORF demands improved healthcare delivery, citing the need for adequate staffing, medicines, equipment, emergency services, and functional facilities across the state.
