Opinion

By Moyosola Niran-Oladunni

There’s a growing concern in Ondo State that deserves honest reflection—not as criticism, but as constructive advice for those steering the ship of governance.

Increasingly, it appears that political loyalty has become the main currency for appointments into critical positions, often at the expense of competence. While loyalty is essential in politics, development thrives on capacity, vision, and technical expertise.

It is understandable—and indeed, expected—that political allies who work tirelessly during elections are rewarded. This is common practice in democratic settings.

However, the real issue arises when such rewards take the form of high-level administrative appointments that require skills far beyond political mobilisation. We cannot continue to hand over the reins of governance to individuals whose only qualification is their presence on campaign grounds.

The consequence of this approach is already visible. Ministries and agencies are increasingly led by appointees who are learning on the job—at the cost of time, efficiency, and sometimes, public trust.

Commissioners, for example, serve as the administrative and policy heads of ministries. Their decisions directly impact service delivery, infrastructure, and the lives of everyday citizens. When these roles are treated as political compensation, it weakens the entire machinery of government.

Contrast this with the permanent secretaries—seasoned technocrats who have risen through the civil service system by merit. They bring decades of institutional memory, technical knowledge, and stability. Yet, they often report to political appointees who, in some unfortunate cases, lack even a basic grasp of the sectors they are supposed to lead. This mismatch slows down the system, frustrates civil servants, and limits the quality of governance.

The result? Projects suffer from poor supervision and are often abandoned. Public funds are wasted. Experienced professionals become disillusioned. And perhaps most troubling of all, citizens begin to lose faith in government—not because they don’t believe in democracy, but because they see that leadership is no longer about competence. It’s about compensation.

But this doesn’t have to be our story.

As Ondo State moves forward under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration, this is a timely opportunity to strike a new balance—one that respects loyalty but prioritises competence in critical appointments.

Reward party faithful with roles suited to their strengths, such as political advisory positions, constituency outreach, or board memberships. But when it comes to roles that require technical execution—like commissioners, agency heads, and board chairpersons—let merit, experience, and proven capacity be the guiding lights.

There’s no shame in admitting we can do better. In fact, that’s how progress begins. The most successful states and nations around the world don’t succeed by chance—they appoint those who know what they’re doing, especially in sectors that drive development. Ondo State should follow the same path.

At the end of the day, elections are only the first step. The real victory lies in delivering on promises and improving lives. And that’s only possible when the right people are in the right positions.

Let us, therefore, move from political patronage to purposeful governance. Our people deserve it. Our future depends on it.

*Niran-Oladunni, a serial entrepreneur, is a former governorship aspirant in Ondo State.