Politics exists to serve the people, not personal ambition. At its core, politics is about the legitimate exercise of power, responsible representation, and the pursuit of policies that improve the lives of citizens. When these principles are respected, governance flourishes, public confidence grows, and development becomes inevitable.
The pillars of every democratic system are power, legitimacy, and authority. These pillars can only stand firmly when they are supported by honesty, transparency, and accountability. Unfortunately, in recent times, some politicians have chosen to substitute these values with political manipulation, misinformation, and self-interest, thereby undermining public trust in government.
It is particularly disturbing when political office holders allegedly present incomplete or misleading information about matters that are within their personal knowledge simply to gain public sympathy or score political points against the very administration they serve. Such conduct, if established, is inconsistent with the ethical standards expected of public officials.
Recent public discussions surrounding the remuneration of certain political appointees have generated unnecessary controversy. Available information indicates that the remuneration package for the category of appointees under discussion comprises a basic salary, imprest allowance, and fuel allowance, amounting to a total monthly package of approximately ₦515,735. In that context, any public statement suggesting that the total monthly remuneration is only ₦180,000, without explaining the complete package, presents an incomplete picture that can easily mislead members of the public.
Public office demands sincerity. If a public official chooses not to disclose personal earnings, that decision should be respected. However, presenting partial information in a manner capable of creating a false impression about government policy or welfare packages is unfair to both the government and the citizens who deserve accurate information.
No responsible politician should deliberately create a narrative capable of diminishing public confidence in an administration they voluntarily serve. Such actions damage the credibility of government, weaken the political party that entrusted them with responsibility, and ultimately undermine democratic governance.
Constructive criticism is an essential ingredient of democracy, but criticism must always be rooted in verifiable facts rather than selective narratives or misinformation. Political disagreement should never become an excuse to distort the truth for personal or financial advantage.
I therefore condemn every attempt to use misleading claims to discredit the APC-led administration of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa. Loyalty to a political party does not require silence where there are genuine concerns, but it certainly requires honesty, fairness, and responsibility. Facts must always prevail over propaganda.
Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration should continue to be evaluated on the basis of verifiable achievements, transparent policies, and measurable outcomes—not on narratives built upon incomplete or misleading information.
History has consistently shown that political propaganda may dominate headlines for a season, but truth ultimately prevails. Public office is a sacred trust, and everyone privileged to serve must uphold the values of integrity, accountability, and truthfulness at all times. These are the principles that strengthen democracy, inspire public confidence, and secure lasting development for Ondo State.
Apostle Temitope Olowofoyekun Dadeowo
Former Senior Special Assistant to the Executive Governor of Ondo State on Special Interest
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