By Precious Oluwole

Coalition of Civil Society Organization in Ondo State has called for the appropriate implementation of the Violence Against Persons Prohibited (VAAP) Law in the State.

The group made this call during a visit to Governor Aiyedatiwa in his office on Thursday.

Recieving the group, Governor Aiyedatiwa appreciated the group for their visit, adding that they will not be taken for granted as their values cannot be overlooked.

According to the Governor, the presence of the Civil Society Organization is very important for any government who wants to deliver, stressing that his administration would continue to maintain a good relationship with them.

He acknowledged their concerns about pressing social challenges, including child abandonment, rape, and drug abuse, and emphasized the need for a collective approach to effectively address these issues.

“Addressing social vices like child abandonment, rape, and drug abuse is a task that requires all hands on deck, While the government is doing its part, I assure you that the law will be enforced strictly against anyone found culpable. We are committed to creating a safe and just society for all our citizens.” He stated

The Governor also stressed the importance of transparency in governance, particularly in budget performance. He assured the coalition that his administration is dedicated to ensuring that all ongoing projects are completed before the end of this present administration, despite the upcoming election.

“The work of governance does not stop because of elections, We have instructed contractors to return to their sites, and I am committed to ensuring that no project is left incomplete. Every project initiated by this administration will be finished on time.” Aiyedatiwa asserted.

Addressing the coalition’s request for greater involvement, the Governor confirmed that he would appoint a special adviser from among their members to facilitate closer engagement and collaboration.

“We value your input and want to ensure that we work closely together for the betterment of our state,” he added.

Governor Aiyedatiwa also touched on the critical issue of food security, emphasizing the need to boost agricultural production to reduce food costs and improve the overall standard of living in the state.

“Increasing food production is key to lowering the cost of living, we are committed to supporting our farmers and ensuring that food security is a top priority.” he noted.

On security, Aiyedatiwa acknowledged that while no country is entirely free of crime, his administration is focused on maintaining the safety and security of all residents.

He praised the Amotekun security agency for its significant efforts in keeping Ondo State safe. “Amotekun has been instrumental in securing our state, and we will continue to support and strengthen their operations,” he said.

Earlier in his address, the Chairman, Coalition of all Civil Society Organisation in Ondo State, Mr Franklin Oloniju who led the team to the visit said that the VAPP law must be appropriately implemented as child abandonment, rape and other menaces and social vices are now rampant and must be curbed to protect the vulnerable in our society.

He emphasized their readiness to assist in monitoring activities and addressing grassroots issues, ensuring that the government remains responsive to the needs of the people.

“We see ourselves as partners in progress, Our goal is to support the government in any way we can, particularly in tackling social vices and ensuring effective governance. We believe that by working together, we can achieve sustainable development for all.” He said

Additionally, Oloniju urged for increased attention to farm security and further strengthening of the Amotekun agency, while commending Governor Aiyedatiwa for his consistent management of the state’s resources and the impactful projects being implemented across Ondo State.

“Your leadership has brought about life-changing projects, and we are here to support you in continuing this great work,” Oloniju concluded.

In attendance were; The Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami, The Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Commissioner for Information, Otunba Wale Akinlosotu, Special Adviser to the Governor on legislative matters and special duties, Dr. Jibayo Adeyeye.