With just 48 hours remaining until the highly anticipated Ondo State governorship election, a major shift has occurred as three gubernatorial candidates officially withdrew from the race, endorsing the incumbent Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC). This move has significant political implications, as it consolidates Aiyedatiwa’s support in the final stretch of the election, which is set to take place on Saturday, November 16, 2024.
The three candidates who have stepped down include the flag bearers of the Accord Party (AP), the National Rescue Movement (NRM), and the African Democratic Congress (ADC). This decision comes after intense campaigning and deliberations, where the candidates chose to rally behind Aiyedatiwa, citing his track record of leadership and commitment to the development of Ondo State.
The endorsement was formalized during a solidarity visit to Governor Aiyedatiwa in Akure, the state capital, where prominent figures joined in the announcement. Among those present were the Governor of Benue State, Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia, along with the Director General of the campaign, Hon. Abiola Makinde, and a number of other influential political figures. Their presence at the endorsement event underscored the unity that has formed behind Aiyedatiwa ahead of the election.
Dr. Ajibola Falaye, the candidate for the Accord Party, spoke on behalf of the three parties, offering strong praise for Governor Aiyedatiwa’s performance in office. He noted that the governor’s dedication to the progress of the state, particularly in the areas of security, infrastructure, and governance, made him the ideal candidate to continue leading Ondo State. Falaye highlighted Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to the welfare of the people and his inclusive governance approach, which he said has fostered stability and growth within the state.
Joining Falaye in the endorsement were Hon. Jenyo Ataunoko, the NRM governorship candidate, and Mr. Olaide Rasheed Ibrahim, the ADC deputy governorship candidate. It is also worth noting that the governorship candidate of the ADC had previously declared his support for Governor Aiyedatiwa, further solidifying the governor’s position in the race.
In his remarks, Falaye explained that their decision to back Aiyedatiwa for Saturday’s election was based on their observations of his consistent dedication to public service, particularly during his tenure as deputy governor. He mentioned that Aiyedatiwa’s approachability and willingness to engage with all parties has made him a respected leader in the state. Falaye further stated that the relative peace the state has enjoyed under Aiyedatiwa’s leadership was a testament to his strong stance on security and his commitment to protecting the lives of the people of Ondo State.
He also acknowledged the significant infrastructure development that has taken place under Aiyedatiwa’s leadership. “We see the infrastructural development that has taken place even within this short period,” Falaye remarked, emphasizing that the governor’s administration has been working actively for the people. “This Saturday, we will turn our commitment into votes. We will vote for continuity in Ondo State,” he declared, reinforcing their support for the governor’s reelection bid.
In response, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed his deep gratitude for the endorsement, calling it a “quality decision made out of goodwill by the candidates and their parties.” He acknowledged that the endorsement was not something he had sought, but he was thankful for the unified support of his fellow candidates. “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 unite behind him, describing it as a demonstration of statesmanship and a commitment to the continued progress of Ondo State. He also urged the supporters of the three parties to come out in full force 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,” Aiyedatiwa said, stressing the importance of voter turnout in ensuring a successful election outcome.