Fasoranti, Pause and Reflect: Ondo Central Deserves Continuity, Not Disruption

Fasoranti, Pause and Reflect: Ondo Central Deserves Continuity, Not Disruption

BY ADEWOLE AYODEJI
(Major Dee)

I write as a concerned citizen of Akure, someone who has lived and worked both in Akure and Abuja, and who understands the inner workings of the National Assembly.

I also write on behalf of critical stakeholders in Ondo Central who are fully aware of the implications of losing legislative continuity at the federal level. It is from this position of experience and responsibility that I feel compelled to speak at this crucial moment.

Politics, at its best, is a careful and deliberate search for the most effective representation of the people.

It should not be reduced to a contest driven by impulses, personal loyalties, or rushed alignments that ignore performance, continuity, and public trust.

In Ondo Central Senatorial District, this principle is especially important at this moment.

The district already has a sitting senator, Adeniyi Adegbonmire, widely known as “Omo Ekun,” who represents Ondo Central in the 10th National Assembly under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
At the same time, Taiwo Fasoranti has stepped down as Secretary to the Ondo State Government to pursue the APC senatorial ticket ahead of 2027.

This situation calls for maturity and balance. It is natural in a democratic setting for aspirants to seek higher office, and it is equally expected that party leaders will hold preferences.

However, the process must be guided by fairness and principle. Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has made it clear that candidates should emerge through consensus built on merit, loyalty, and winnability, while cautioning against desperation and “do or die” politics.
That position is commendable, but it must also be upheld in practice.

Senator Adegbonmire’s tenure has been marked by visible constituency projects and responsive representation.

From road interventions and rural electrification to scholarships, youth and women empowerment, and healthcare support, his efforts reflect a commitment to tangible development.

Beyond projects, his consistent engagement with constituents has ensured that their voices are heard and translated into meaningful outcomes.

In the Senate, he has amplified the interests of Ondo Central through strategic advocacy and legislative influence.
Merit, however, must be applied consistently. It cannot be used selectively to justify decisions driven by other considerations.

A sitting senator with legislative experience, institutional memory, and a proven track record offers advantages that should not be dismissed lightly.

Adegbonmire is not new to national service. As a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Judiciary, he occupies a position of influence.
His role in advancing the Electoral Act 2026 (as amended), signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, reflects both legal expertise and legislative relevance.

At its core, Ondo Central does not need experimentation for its own sake. It needs steady, informed, and effective representation.

A ranking senator understands the workings of the National Assembly, builds relationships, and protects the interests of the district with clarity and experience.

Where continuity is delivering results, disruption should not be the default choice.

This is not to diminish the ambition of Taiwo Fasoranti or any other aspirant. His decision to contest is legitimate and deserves respect, as do the aspirations of others within the party. A healthy democratic process must remain open, competitive, and free from imposition.

However, competition does not remove the need for sound judgment. A responsible political party must distinguish between proximity and performance, sentiment and service, personal preference and public good.

Leadership should not be about who is closest to power, but about who can best serve the people.
This is why many believe Senator Adegbonmire should be given the opportunity to continue. His record, professional standing, and current role provide Ondo Central with continuity and influence that should not be casually set aside.

In a system where effective representation is often disrupted too quickly, retaining proven leadership can be the more responsible path.

At the same time, fairness must remain the standard. The APC must ensure a transparent process, free from pressure or manipulation. The best candidate should emerge through credibility, not convenience. Governor Aiyedatiwa’s emphasis on merit must be more than rhetoric.

The people of Ondo Central are not seeking conflict, they are seeking clarity. They want representation that is experienced, accessible, and effective.

On these measures, Senator Adegbonmire remains a strong and credible option.
So, let the conversation remain principled. Let every aspirant be respected. Let the process be fair. But let it also be clear: when a district already has a tested and performing senator, replacing that experience without compelling reason risks sacrificing continuity for uncertainty.

Akure, and indeed Ondo Central, must think carefully. The future should not be shaped by temporary political interests, but by long-term value.

A ranking senator brings continuity, competence, and proven service, qualities that deserve serious consideration.

Adewole Ayodeji (Major Dee)

Founder Major Dee Motors and Major Dee Foundation.
A former Aspirant MHA Akure South Constituency 2.
Former Special Assistant to the Honourable Minister of State for Transportation writes from Cambridge United Kingdom.