Ondo Decides 2024: Dr. Ikubese Challenges Political Candidates to Publish Their Manifestos, Criticizes Superficial Campaign Tactics

Ondo Decides 2024: Dr. Ikubese Challenges Political Candidates to Publish Their Manifestos, Criticizes Superficial Campaign Tactics

*Akure, Ondo State – October 30, 2024* – Ahead of the upcoming Ondo State gubernatorial elections, Dr. Thomas-Wilson Ikubese, a former presidential aspirant and Medical Director of Sckye Hospital, has voiced his concerns about the state of political campaigns. In an exclusive interview with the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP), Dr. Ikubese criticized candidates for prioritizing dancing and entertainment over presenting tangible manifestos, urging them to publish their plans in pamphlets for voters to hold them accountable.

Dr. Ikubese, a philanthropist and advocate for integrity in governance, stated that candidates should focus on realistic promises that deliver meaningful benefits to the people of Ondo State. Reflecting on his 2019 presidential campaign, he emphasized that his approach to politics is rooted in service, not financial gain, and called for a political environment that attracts leaders who prioritize the public good.

“One of my proposals was to make political offices less attractive by lowering salaries to near minimum wage and removing immunity against corruption,” Dr. Ikubese explained. “We need a system that encourages politicians to serve without seeking personal enrichment.”

Dr. Ikubese urged political parties, especially the All Progressives Congress (APC) and People’s Democratic Party (PDP), to provide accessible and detailed manifestos for voters. “I believe they should distribute manifestos like tracts, so people leave campaign grounds with a clear understanding of the candidates’ promises,” he said.

Dr. Ikubese also criticized the current administration, claiming that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has not demonstrated the political will to drive genuine change. “We need a leader willing to step on toes and overhaul the system, not one who benefits from it,” he remarked, while urging Nigerians to keep hope alive and work towards change.

Highlighting the importance of youth in shaping Nigeria’s future, Dr. Ikubese categorized young Nigerians into two groups: those genuinely invested in national progress and those seeking personal gain. “There are young people who want the system to work for everyone, and then there are those who only want access to power and resources,” he noted.

Looking to the future, Dr. Ikubese hinted at his potential return to the political arena and outlined his vision for Nigeria. He proposed an executive bill that would mandate transparency in government finances, align political salaries with civil service pay, and create a special anti-corruption court with strict penalties for embezzlement. He also advocated for public involvement in appointing ministers and national award recipients.

Dr. Ikubese concluded by emphasizing that a culture of accountability and public service is essential for Nigeria’s progress, noting that leaders and their families must take pride in their roles and avoid corrupt practices. “When we promote integrity in public office, we lay the foundation for a prosperous Nigeria,” he said.