Political leadership is measured by the people empowered, institutions strengthened and opportunities created, not by threats or displays of authority. As the 2027 senatorial election approaches, Hon. Mathew Oye Oyerinmade (MATO), the PDP candidate for Ondo South, presents a case for leadership built on service, human capacity development and community impact.
His record reportedly includes funding the renovation and furnishing of APC secretariats across all six local government areas of Ondo South in 2021, renovating the APC state secretariat after the EndSARS unrest and distributing solar energy units to traditional palaces across the district in 2025.
These interventions demonstrate a willingness to contribute even without occupying the senatorial seat.
MATO’s professional experience with Shell, particularly in land-related duties and community liaison, also gives him valuable exposure to community relations and stakeholder engagement.
His politics, as described by his supporters, is about recognising potential, opening doors and celebrating the progress of others. Ondo South needs a senator who will strengthen institutions, create opportunities for young people and make representation meaningful to ordinary citizens.
Against this background, the reported threats by Hon. Isaac Kekemeke against individuals and groups supporting MATO raise serious questions about political tolerance. If Kekemeke is confident in his popularity and record, he should convince the electorate with verifiable achievements rather than appear threatened by the political choices of others.
The emerging support for MATO across party lines, including from some APC members, is an expression of democratic freedom. Just as people from different parties can support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, based on their assessment of Gov. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s achievements, they should equally be free to support MATO for the Senate.
The choice before Ondo South is between leadership that empowers and politics that intimidates. Kekemeke should present his record and explain what his previous positions have delivered for the people, while MATO’s existing interventions provide a foundation for his senatorial ambition.
The Senate is not a throne, and the people’s mandate is not anyone’s personal possession. The people of Okitipupa, Ilaje, Ese-Odo, Irele, Odigbo and Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo deserve a builder, not a political boss.
Da tie mo! MATO for Senate. Ondo South deserves a builder, not a political boss.
©️Mato Strategic Media Team