The Change Movement, a socio-political advocacy platform committed to promoting civic responsibility, political consciousness and accountable leadership, successfully held its inaugural online meeting and public lecture on Wednesday, May 27, 2026.
The virtual event, which lasted from 8:43 PM to 10:45 PM, attracted dignitaries, professionals, traditional leaders, youth representatives, artisans, religious bodies, media practitioners, students, and concerned citizens from within and outside Ondo Kingdom.
The proceedings were anchored by Comrade Lucas Famakinwa, while Comrade Alex Olubusade handled the recognition of distinguished guests and participants. The meeting commenced with an opening prayer led by Pastor Elumaro.
In his welcome address, the Pioneer Founder of The Change Movement, Comrade Eric Famogun, stated that the initiative was established in response to the growing political apathy among citizens and the increasing withdrawal of responsible individuals from civic and political engagement.
According to him, politics directly affects every aspect of society including education, healthcare, security, infrastructure, economic development, and the future of younger generations. He stressed that citizens can no longer afford to remain passive observers while governance is left in the hands of unprepared and self-serving actors.
Comrade Famogun explained that The Change Movement is a peaceful and non-violent platform dedicated to promoting awareness, responsibility, participation, accountability, and positive societal change through political education, public sensitization, and community engagement.
The keynote lecture was delivered by Sir Chief Ayo A. Akingbule, Baba Ijo of All Saints Anglican Church, Ogbonkowo, who spoke extensively on “The Change Movement” and the urgent need for citizens to reclaim the political space through active participation and value-driven leadership.
Drawing historical parallels with the Ondo Study Group established in 1986 by former Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, the guest speaker noted that political consciousness and ideological leadership once played significant roles in community development within Ondo Kingdom.
He lamented that the absence of ideology, accountability and genuine service in contemporary politics has contributed greatly to voter apathy, political commercialization, and the increasing menace of vote buying and vote selling.
Referencing the welfarism ideology championed by the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and further implemented by Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, Sir Akingbule urged citizens to reject monetary inducements during elections and instead support competent leaders committed to genuine service and sustainable development.
One of the major highlights of the event was the thought-provoking contribution of Dr. Jibayo Adeyeye, who described the silence of the critical majority as one of the greatest challenges confronting community development and political progress.
According to him, “A wise man who refuses to rule will suffer the misrule of idiots.” He further lamented the commercialization of politics, stating that politics has gradually shifted from service to personal enrichment.
Dr. Adeyeye condemned the culture of vote selling in Ondo Kingdom, explaining that the practice often begins long before elections whenever supporters besiege aspiring politicians with personal demands in exchange for political support. He warned that such practices discourage competent and qualified individuals from contesting political offices.
He also emphasized the need for professionals, civil servants, intellectuals, religious organizations and responsible citizens to become actively involved in political processes and party activities in order to influence governance positively.
Dr. Adeyeye further recommended that subsequent engagements of The Change Movement should be organized as well-publicized webinars on accessible platforms to encourage wider participation and civic enlightenment.
Participants at the meeting also raised important concerns regarding voter education, poverty-driven vote buying, political distrust and citizen engagement.
Mr. Sola Folaranmi questioned how communities could effectively combat the growing culture of vote buying, while Mrs. Omobola Akinbinu Oyewale emphasized the need to educate citizens who often prioritize immediate personal gains over long-term societal development due to distrust in elected officials.
The event also witnessed the recognition of several prominent dignitaries and stakeholders including His Royal Majesty, Oba Olafusi Gbemi Johnson, the Ajamolu of Oniseere Kingdom, Ondo State.
Also recognized was Barrister Prince Adewole Adebayo, President of Kaftan TV, the current SDP presidential flag-bearer, mentor to many Ondo youths and reputed highest taxpayer in Ondo State.
Other dignitaries acknowledged during the meeting included Barrister Wale Leyimu, a notable politician and ally of former Governor Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, as well as Elder Ademola Olorunfemi, described as a passionate lover of Ondo Kingdom and respected community leader.
Representatives of community youths, artisans, student unions from Adeyemi Federal University of Education and UNIMED, members of ANCOPSS, the Nigerian Union of Teachers, religious organizations, traditional institutions, and the Nigerian Union of Tailors were also in attendance.
Media organizations represented at the event included Eki FM, Kakaki FM, and several online news blogs.
At the end of deliberations, participants unanimously resolved to intensify campaigns against vote buying and vote selling, mobilize citizens through traditional and digital media platforms, promote responsible citizenship among youths, and encourage broader participation of professionals and responsible individuals in governance and political processes.
The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mrs. Folaranmi Opeyemi Olaide, who expressed appreciation to the guest speaker, the founder, administrators, dignitaries, and all participants for contributing to the success of the historic inaugural gathering. The closing prayer was led by Pastor Samuel Folorunso.
Observers described the inaugural meeting as a significant step toward rebuilding civic consciousness and inspiring a new culture of responsible political participation in Ondo Kingdom and beyond.
The Change Movement reaffirmed its commitment to educating, mobilizing, and empowering citizens toward achieving sustainable societal transformation.
CHANGE IS COMING…
