As we navigate the complexities of regional development, it is imperative that we prioritise unity and collective action. In this opinion piece, Dr. Ibori argued that the persistent political rifts in Arogbo-Ibe are hindering our progress and undermining our potential for growth. He therefore proposed a way forward, calling on our leaders to sink their differences and work towards a common agenda for the best interest of the region.
Read the full text below:
BRIDGING POLITICAL DIVIDES FOR REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT: A CALL FOR UNITY AROGBO-IBE LEADERS
By: Dr. Ibori Tuobowei Precious – Medical Doctor, Unionist, and Advocate for Regional Development
In a time when global attention is shifting toward sustainable development, regional stability, and inclusive governance, it is disheartening to witness persistent political rifts within our dear Arogbo-Ibe—rifts that continue to undermine the progress and unity we desperately need. As a medical doctor and unionist deeply interested in politics, I feel compelled to raise my voice, not as a partisan actor, but as a concerned citizen calling for healing, collaboration, and purpose-driven leadership.
Our region, particularly the riverine and oil-producing communities of Ondo State, is blessed with human capital and natural resources that remain underutilized. What has held us back is not lack of opportunity, but disunity, ego-driven politics, and the absence of a shared vision. The time has come to break this cycle.
This article is a clarion call to our prominent political leaders; Hon. Kingsley Kuku, former presidential adviser on Niger Delta affairs and chairman Presidential Amnesty programme; Hon. Donald K. Ojogo, current federal legislator; Hon. D.I. Kekemeke, respected party leader and former Secretary to the State Government; Hon. Tob Loko, commissioner designate, High chief Bibopere Ajube; and other political elites, technocrats, youth leaders, and traditional rulers. The stakes are too high for continued political infighting. The people need you now more than ever.
Political Conflict: A Critical Analysis
1. The Politics of Personality vs. Purpose:
The power struggle among key actors has often revolved around influence, recognition, and political control rather than genuine service delivery. This personalized brand of politics leads to the marginalization of capable individuals, fragmentation of political structures, and ultimately, developmental stagnation.
2. Resource Control and Underdevelopment:
Despite the strategic position of Ondo South in the Niger Delta, the region remains heavily underdeveloped. From poor healthcare and education infrastructure to inadequate roads and electricity, our communities suffer from systemic neglect; often worsened by political gridlock. The same oil that fuels national revenue has brought little prosperity to the communities where it is extracted.
3. Youth Disillusionment and Migration:
A direct consequence of this political dysfunction is the increasing migration of our youths to urban centers or even outside the country. The erosion of trust in public institutions stems from a belief that politics is a game of the elite, not a tool for societal transformation. We must correct this perception.
A Way Forward: Common Goals for Collective Impact
It is not too late to change the trajectory. If our political and community leaders can realign under a common agenda, there is still hope. Here’s what must be done:
1. Convene a Regional Leadership Summit:
Let us initiate a non-partisan regional summit with representatives from all major political parties, civil society groups, youth and women leaders, and traditional institutions. The goal should be a unified development agenda—irrespective of party affiliations.
2. Institutionalize an Arogbo-Ibe Development Charter:
This charter should articulate shared priorities; industrialization, education reform, coastal development, youth empowerment, and infrastructure. All candidates and leaders, whether in APC, PDP, LP, or any other party, should commit to this charter publicly.
3. Promote Conflict Resolution through Dialogue:
Grievances and rivalries are not unusual in politics. However, mature democracies are built on dialogue and compromise. Let us foster an environment where differences can be addressed through structured dialogue, not social media warfare or grassroots division.
4. Strengthen Youth Inclusion and Mentorship:
Elder statesmen like Hon. D.I. Kekemeke and Hon. Kingsley Kuku must play a deliberate role in grooming younger leaders, bridging generational divides, and investing in leadership continuity. Our future depends on the quality of leaders we raise today.
5. Champion Health, Education, and Economic Reforms:
As a physician, I see firsthand the health disparities affecting our people. A region without healthy and educated citizens cannot thrive. Let’s prioritize the construction and staffing of hospitals, fund educational institutions, and incentivize small businesses and local industries.
Conclusion: A Collective Responsibility
The weight of history rests heavily on today’s political class. The people of Arogbo-Ibe and indeed the local government, are watching and waiting. Posterity will remember not the number of elections won or lost, but the legacies built. Let us rise above partisan pride and self-interest. Let our political discourse not be who leads, but how we lead—and for what purpose.
Hon. Kingsley Kuku, Hon. Donald Ojogo, Hon. Kekemeke, Hon. Tob Loko,High chief Bibopere Ajube and other influential voices: you are all assets to this region. Imagine the transformative change we can achieve if your efforts are synchronized and your ambitions tied to the common good. Let us unite not because we agree on everything, but because we agree that Arogbo-Ibe must rise.
Let this be the era when leadership turned to statesmanship, and politics became a platform for purpose. Arogbo-Ibe deserves nothing less.
