Calls grow for political inclusion as Ondo West constituency 2 laments 26 years of marginalization

Stakeholders from Ondo West Constituency 2 have raised fresh concerns over what they describe as prolonged political marginalization, urging immediate action to address decades-long exclusion from key elective and appointive positions.

The constituency, which is part of the larger Ondo Kingdom, has reportedly not produced any member of the House of Representatives, senator, state commissioner, or federal appointee since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999. Leaders and concerned citizens say the continued neglect has stifled development and eroded confidence in the political process.

Despite its cultural importance and active participation in elections, Ondo West 2 has seen political power concentrated in Ondo West Constituency 1 and Ondo East, with all major appointments and representations consistently allocated to those two divisions.

A detailed review of political appointments reveals that key figures such as former Governor and Minister, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, and long-serving senator, Gbenga Ogunniya, both hail from Ondo West 1. Similarly, the current Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, is from Ondo East. The House of Representatives seat, since 1999, has alternated only between candidates from Ondo East and Ondo West 1—with Ondo West 2 yet to have a representative.

"This is no longer an oversight—it is an entrenched pattern of exclusion,” said a community leader who spoke on condition of anonymity. “We have competent, qualified individuals, but they are constantly overlooked. The people are losing faith.”

Recent federal appointments and state executive positions have also followed the same pattern, with prominent figures such as Dr. Dayo Adeyanju, Chief Yele Ogundipe, and Hon. Lola Fagbemi, all hailing from Ondo West 1. Constituency 2 has remained conspicuously absent from such lists.

Community members point to the negative impact of this exclusion, citing poor infrastructure, lack of influence on policy, and widespread political apathy, especially among the youth. They argue that continued marginalization undermines the democratic principle of fair representation.

Amid growing calls for change, pressure is mounting on political parties to zone the 2027 House of Representatives ticket to Ondo West 2. There are also demands for more equitable distribution of political appointments at the state and federal levels.

One name gaining traction among constituents is Dr. Michael Akintomide Ajilo, a respected medical doctor and grassroots advocate. He is being touted as a credible and competent candidate to break the 26-year streak of exclusion.

Dr. Ajilo, who has experience in public health policy and community development, is the founder of the MADE Foundation and is said to be deeply connected to the needs of the people. Supporters believe his candidacy could mark a turning point for the long-marginalized constituency.

“Dr. Ajilo represents a new beginning—a symbol of justice, competence, and genuine service,” said one supporter.

As the 2027 general elections approach, the people of Ondo West Constituency 2 are making it clear: they want to be heard, seen, and fairly represented.

#Ajilo2027 #JusticeForOndoWest2 #EqualRepresentationNow