Workers and residents of Ondo State have expressed frustration with Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa over the late announcement of a work-free day ahead of Saturday’s local government election.
The governor, through his Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, announced at around 7 pm on Thursday that Friday would be a public holiday to allow workers to travel to their hometowns to participate in the elections.
Many residents criticized the timing of the announcement, describing it as poorly coordinated and disruptive. A civil servant, Mrs. Bakri, shared her disappointment, stating that the late notification derailed her plans.
“We waited in the office until 4 pm on Thursday, hoping for a circular about a holiday, but none came. I only found out about the work-free day at 8 pm when a colleague called me,” she said.
Bakri explained that the delay forced her to postpone important tasks, which would now spill into the following week. She added, “The governor cannot run the state like a private business. Announcing a holiday at the last minute and expecting us to adjust is unacceptable.”
Similarly, a parent, Seyi Adu, recounted her frustration upon taking her child to school on Friday morning, only to be turned back at the gate.
“I drove from Ijapo to Aule Road, only to learn there was no school because of a last-minute holiday. I wasn’t even aware Saturday was election day,” Adu said.
The late announcement has drawn widespread criticism, with many urging the government to improve its communication and planning to avoid similar incidents in the future.
