Ahead of Saturday’s governorship election in Ondo State, three gubernatorial candidates have stepped down to endorse the incumbent governor and candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
The Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, confirmed this development on Thursday.
The candidates who withdrew their ambitions include Dr. Ajibola Falaye of the Accord Party, Hon. Jenyo Ataunko of the National Rescue Movement (NRM), and Olaide Ibrahim of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). They made their decision public during a solidarity visit to Governor Aiyedatiwa, pledging their support for his re-election bid.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Dr. Falaye explained that their decision was driven by the governor’s exemplary leadership, track record in office, and commitment to the welfare of the people of Ondo State.
He highlighted Aiyedatiwa’s inclusiveness in governance, open-door policy, and remarkable achievements in public service as key factors in their endorsement.
“We have been observing his administration, and it is clear that Governor Aiyedatiwa has a genuine interest in the progress of Ondo State.
His doors are always open to everyone, which demonstrates his dedication to inclusive governance,” Dr. Falaye said.
He also commended the governor’s efforts in ensuring security across the state, stating, “Under his leadership, Ondo has experienced relative peace. This reflects his commitment to protecting lives and property.”
Dr. Falaye further emphasized the infrastructural developments recorded during Aiyedatiwa’s tenure, which he described as impactful and beneficial to the people.
He added that the shared values of progressive governance among their parties made the decision to support the governor a logical one.
“This Saturday, we will not only endorse his vision but also translate it into votes.
We are ready to mobilize our supporters to vote for continuity and the continued development of Ondo State,” Falaye concluded.
In response, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed his appreciation for the endorsement, describing the move as an act of statesmanship.
He acknowledged the significance of the gesture, noting that it was made voluntarily and out of goodwill.
“I am deeply grateful for this show of support. My colleagues in the race have voluntarily aligned themselves with my mandate, and I assure you that this trust will not be misplaced,” Aiyedatiwa said.
He urged the candidates and their supporters to actively mobilize for the APC, calling for a strong turnout on election day.
The endorsement event was attended by key figures, including Benue Governor Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia and the campaign’s Director General, Hon. Abiola Makinde.
Meanwhile, the election has been marked by significant developments, including the disqualification of the Labour Party candidate, Olusola Ebiseni, by the Court of Appeal in Abuja. Additionally, Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 election, has backed his party’s candidate, Mr. Agboola Ajayi, urging voters not to be intimidated.
As the state gears up for the polls, the stage is set for what promises to be a decisive moment in Ondo’s political landscape.
