Below Zero Governance: Fresh Report Slams Aiyedatiwa Administration Over Economic and Security Failures
A political assessment released by the Ondo State chapter of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has described the performance of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration as “below zero,” raising concerns over governance delivery across key sectors in the state.
In a statement signed by the State Publicity Secretary, Owolola Adebola, the party alleged that the administration has failed to build on existing governance structures since assuming office in December 2023, despite inheriting challenges in infrastructure, education, security, and economic development.
Economic Concerns and Fiscal Direction
The statement criticized the state’s economic management, stating that Ondo State continues to rely heavily on federal allocations while internally generated revenue remains weak. It further alleged a lack of strategic focus in critical sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and industrial development.
It also claimed that budget implementation is skewed in favour of recurrent expenditure, with limited investment in capital projects, while transparency in fiscal operations remains inadequate. According to the statement, there is no clear economic blueprint guiding long-term development in the state.
Education Sector Decline
The NDC expressed concern over what it described as the continued decline of the education sector, alleging that public schools remain underfunded and poorly equipped.
It further cited poor infrastructure, shortage of learning materials, and low teacher morale as contributing factors to declining academic performance, referencing WAEC and NECO results. The statement also noted that reforms in teacher training, digital learning, and school infrastructure have not been effectively implemented.
Agricultural Performance
On agriculture, the statement alleged that the sector has not experienced meaningful progress despite its importance to the state economy. It claimed that farmers continue to face challenges including limited access to inputs, weak extension services, and inadequate government support.
It further stated that value chain development for key crops such as cocoa, cassava, and cashew remains weak, while rural economic growth has stagnated due to lack of structured intervention.
Security Situation
The statement raised concerns over what it described as increasing insecurity in parts of the state, including cases of kidnapping, armed robbery, and communal tensions.
It criticized the government’s response as largely reactive, alleging weak coordination of security operations and inadequate community policing structures. It also argued that root causes of insecurity such as unemployment and poverty have not been sufficiently addressed.
Infrastructure and Business Environment
The NDC further highlighted infrastructural challenges, including poor road conditions, unreliable water supply, and unstable electricity.
It alleged that these deficiencies continue to negatively affect business operations and discourage investment, while initiatives aimed at supporting SMEs and industrial development have reportedly stalled.
Governance and Accountability
On governance, the party raised concerns about limited transparency and weak civic engagement in policy formulation. It also alleged poor budget openness and insufficient consultation with stakeholders.
The statement further criticized what it described as a lack of responsiveness to public criticism, stating that it weakens accountability and democratic governance.
The statement concluded that the overall performance of the Aiyedatiwa administration represents a regression rather than progress, describing it as “below zero.”
It called for urgent policy reforms, improved coordination of governance activities, and stronger civic engagement to redirect the state’s development trajectory.
“Ondo citizens deserve effective governance that delivers security, economic opportunity, and functional public services. The current situation is unsustainable and must change,” the statement added.
The release was signed by Owolola Adebola, State Publicity Secretary, NDC, Ondo State.
Reported by:
Correspondent, Arogbo-Ibe Voice Reporters