President Bola Tinubu has publicly referred to opposition party members in the country as “reactionary politicians,” a term he used to highlight his belief that they do not contribute to progressive governance. Tinubu made this statement on Wednesday in Akure during the grand finale of the campaign rally in support of Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate in Ondo State. The rally was a significant event in the lead-up to Saturday’s election, which has drawn attention from political observers and supporters from across the region.
Although President Tinubu was not present in person at the event, he was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who delivered Tinubu's message to the enthusiastic crowd of APC supporters. During his address, Vice President Shettima posed a rhetorical question to the audience, asking if any former governors of Ondo State, both those still living and those deceased, would have cast their votes for any so-called “reactionary party.” The question underscored Tinubu’s stance that these past leaders, who contributed to the state’s development, would support a party committed to progress, such as the APC, rather than an opposition party.
President Tinubu went on to assert that voting for the APC in the upcoming election would represent a vote for continued progress and development in Ondo State and across the South-West region. He emphasized that a strong backing for the APC would help further the accomplishments made in recent years under APC-led administrations, which have aimed to drive growth and enhance the quality of life for the people of the region.
In addition to his appeal for support, Tinubu also announced the federal government’s recent approval for the establishment of a new federal teaching hospital in Ondo State. He cited this initiative as a major step toward boosting healthcare resources and providing more comprehensive medical services to residents of the state, underscoring the APC’s commitment to development in critical sectors such as healthcare.
In Tinubu’s words, he asked, “We bring you greetings from the President. If Ajasin were still alive, is he going to vote for the APC or a reactionary party?” Continuing his line of thought, he added, “If Akeredolu were to be alive, is he going to vote for the APC or the reactionary party?” He also posed a similar question about former governor Mimiko’s allegiance, challenging the gathered supporters to consider these historical leaders’ likely stance.
In his address, Tinubu urged the people of Ondo to come out in large numbers to vote for the APC, stating that this support would be crucial for the future of the South-West and the prosperity of the people of Ondo State. He reminded the crowd of the influential role Ondo State holds, especially as it now has two senior ministers within the federal government, saying, “To whom much is given, much is expected.” This, he emphasized, should inspire voters to back the APC in the election.
Further rallying support, Tinubu made a passionate plea to the electorate, encouraging them to support the APC to ensure that the developmental initiatives already in place continue uninterrupted in Ondo State. His message was one of unity and progress, reinforcing the benefits of a vote for the APC in continuing the ongoing work in the region.
The APC candidate, Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, also addressed the crowd, sharing that he has remained loyal to his former boss, the late Gov. Rotimi Akeredolu, until the end. He assured the people of Ondo State that he was committed to advancing the development agenda and would work tirelessly to enhance the progress achieved thus far if elected. Aiyedatiwa’s message was one of dedication and continuity, promising to honor the legacy of Akeredolu and bring further positive change to the state.
Also speaking at the rally, Minister of Interior Mr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo declared that the APC was fully prepared for the election and expressed confidence in securing a sweeping victory across all 18 local government areas in Ondo State for Aiyedatiwa. His remarks were a show of unity and determination, reinforcing the party’s readiness to achieve success in the upcoming election.
Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, who chairs the APC Campaign Council for the Ondo election, urged supporters to avoid physical altercations with opposition members and instead make their voices heard through their votes. He emphasized that the best way to show support for the APC is through a peaceful, democratic process. Sanwo-Olu expressed optimism about the party’s victory, saying the APC was confident of winning the election and would later return to appreciate the people of Ondo State for their unwavering support.
In a further show of commitment, the National Chairman of the APC, Alhaji Abdulahi Ganduje, attended the rally to endorse Aiyedatiwa’s candidacy, presenting the party’s flag to Aiyedatiwa and his running mate, Dr. Olayide Adelami. Ganduje’s presence and endorsement underscored the national backing Aiyedatiwa has within the party, as APC leaders united in their support for his campaign and expressed optimism for a successful outcome in the election.
