The attention of the Director General of the Opomulero Group, Hon. Olasupo Olakunori Michael (DG Opomulero), has been drawn to the “Cease and Desist” letter reportedly issued by Oloroogun Sola Ajisafe against Apostle Temitope Olowofoyekun Dadeowo, popularly known as Tope Liberty Cares.
Let it be stated without ambiguity that democracy flourishes through the free exchange of ideas. No individual, regardless of status or profession, possesses an exclusive licence to criticize others while seeking to discourage criticism directed at himself.
For months, the people of Ondo State have watched Oloroogun Sola Ajisafe relentlessly criticize Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, members of the State Executive Council, and leaders of the All Progressives Congress. Whether one agrees with those opinions or not, they have formed part of the public political conversation.
It is therefore surprising that the same individual appears unwilling to accept a response from another citizen who disagrees with his views. Public debate cannot operate on double standards. If criticism is acceptable when directed at public officials, then reasoned criticism of a public commentator should not suddenly become unacceptable simply because he is the subject of that criticism.
I commend Apostle Temitope Olowofoyekun Dadeowo for choosing to challenge what he believes to be misleading narratives through public engagement rather than intimidation. Democracy is strengthened when ideas compete with ideas, facts with facts, and arguments with arguments.
As someone who has consistently defended Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa against what I consider politically motivated attacks, I find it ironic that those who regularly subject others to intense public scrutiny become uncomfortable when similar scrutiny is directed at them.
The people of Ondo State deserve mature political engagement, not selective outrage. Every participant in public discourse must accept that accountability is reciprocal. One cannot demand unlimited freedom to criticize others while expecting immunity from criticism.
I therefore urge all parties to allow public debate to remain civil, factual, and respectful. Differences of opinion should be settled through superior arguments and evidence, not through attempts to discourage lawful public participation.
Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa remains focused on governance, infrastructure development, economic growth, security, and improving the welfare of the people of Ondo State. Those committed to the progress of our dear state should contribute constructively to public discourse rather than create unnecessary distractions.
History will ultimately judge every public actor—not by the volume of their criticism—but by their consistency, fairness, respect for democratic values, and commitment to truth.
Signed:
Hon. Olasupo Olakunori Michael
Director General, Opomulero Group (DG Opomulero)
