A group of concerned youths in Ondo State, the Ondo Progressive Youths, have called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reverse the replacement of Engr. Razaq Obe as the Executive Director of Projects for the South-West Development Commission (SWDC).
In an open letter signed by its Coordinator, Sadiq Abbas, and addressed to the President, the group expressed dismay over the substitution of Engr. Obe, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s nominee with Mr. Olugbenga Olufehinti.
They described the move as an undermining of the governor’s constitutional prerogative and a disregard for merit-based appointments.
Engr. Obe, a seasoned engineer with extensive experience in both public service and the private sector, previously served as Ondo State’s Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources (2021–2025) and held key positions at ExxonMobil Nigeria, including Operations Contracts Manager and Chairman of PENGASSAN.
The youths argued that his nomination aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda, citing his leadership qualities, technical expertise, and youthful dynamism as vital for the SWDC’s success.
They posited, therefore that “Replacing him undermines the governor’s constitutional input and sidelines a candidate whose track record, energy, and leadership speak volumes.
“Engr. Obe embodies the spirit of the Renewed Hope Agenda. He is youthful, energetic, purpose-driven, and perfectly suited to drive the developmental objectives of the SWDC for the South-West region.
The group concluded by urging President Tinubu to restore Engr. Obe’s nomination as a demonstration of commitment to meritocracy, youth inclusion, and federal-state collaboration.
“Your Excellency, we humbly appeal for the restoration of Engr. Razaq Obe’s nomination by Governor Aiyedatiwa, as a demonstration of your commitment to meritocracy, youth inclusion, and federal harmony.
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