In a significant political development just 48 hours before the Ondo State governorship election, three gubernatorial candidates have withdrawn from the race and endorsed Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The candidates from the Accord Party, the National Rescue Movement (NRM), and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) announced their decision during a solidarity visit to Governor Aiyedatiwa. Dr. Ajibola Falaye, the Accord Party candidate, spoke on behalf of the endorsing candidates, lauding the governor's commitment to the progress of Ondo State and highlighting his notable achievements in office.
Joining Dr. Falaye in the endorsement are Hon. Jenyo Ataunoko of the NRM and Mr. Olaide Rasheed Ibrahim, the deputy governorship candidate of the ADC. It is noteworthy that the ADC governorship candidate had previously declared support for Governor Aiyedatiwa.
Dr. Falaye articulated that their collective decision was driven by Governor Aiyedatiwa’s exemplary public service record, which dates back to his tenure as deputy governor. "We have been observing him, and his doors are always open to all," Dr. Falaye noted, commending the governor for his inclusive governance style and prioritization of residents' welfare.
He emphasized the governor’s success in maintaining security within the state, saying, "The state has been experiencing relative peace under his watch, which reflects his commitment to safeguarding the lives of our people." Dr. Falaye also highlighted the alignment of progressive values and goals between their parties and Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration.
“We see the infrastructural development that has taken place even within this short period. It is clear that the governor is actively working for the people. This Saturday, we will turn our commitment into votes. We will vote for continuity in Ondo State,” Dr. Falaye added.
In his response, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed profound gratitude for the endorsement, describing it as a quality decision made out of goodwill by the candidates and their parties. "I didn’t call for this, but I am grateful that my colleagues in the race have voluntarily identified with my mandate and are ready to mobilize their supporters to vote for the APC," the governor said.
Governor Aiyedatiwa warmly welcomed the candidates' decision to rally behind him, describing it as an act of statesmanship. Acknowledging the limited time before the election, the governor urged the endorsing candidates to mobilize their supporters for a strong turnout on election day. “There’s no time left. I appeal to you all to encourage your members to come out in full force on Saturday and cast their votes for the APC,” he stated.
The endorsement event was attended by notable figures, including the Governor of Benue State, Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia, and the Director General of the campaign, Hon. Abiola Makinde, who joined Governor Aiyedatiwa in receiving the three candidates. This unified front marks a pivotal moment in the lead-up to the Ondo State gubernatorial election, setting the stage for a decisive contest.


0 Comments