Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has criticised Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa over the ongoing Ondo State @ 50 celebrations, describing them as misplaced and insensitive.
In a trending social media post, Sowore argued that Ondo State has little to celebrate after 50 years, citing poor infrastructure, unemployment, insecurity and what he called long-term stagnation.
According to him, the state should be “mourning underdevelopment” rather than declaring public holidays and rolling out ceremonial events.
Sowore specifically faulted the declaration of public holidays for the anniversary, saying residents need good roads, jobs, security and accountable governance, not fanfare.
His comments quickly gained traction online, with many users echoing similar frustrations and questioning the priorities of the state government.
While the Aiyedatiwa administration says the Golden Jubilee is meant to reflect on progress and unity, critics insist that celebrations without visible improvement in people’s living conditions amount to style over substance.
The debate has since turned Ondo @ 50 into a trending topic, highlighting a growing demand from citizens for real development, not symbolic celebrations.
