Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has officially announced his candidacy for the November 16 governorship election in the state. Surrounded by loyalists and supporters, Aiyedatiwa made his declaration at the Gani Fawehinmi Arcade in Akure, amidst enthusiastic fanfare.
Assuming office on December 27, 2023, following the passing of his predecessor, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, Aiyedatiwa will vie for the governorship ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in an upcoming primary slated for April.
The formal declaration ceremony was attended by notable elders and leaders of the Ondo State APC, including former Ondo North Senatorial District senator, Ajayi Boroffice, and a member of the House of Representatives, Mr Abiola Makinde, among others.
Addressing the gathering, Aiyedatiwa expressed his commitment to building on the legacy of his late principal, focusing on areas such as welfare, infrastructure, and security. He reiterated Akeredolu’s endorsement of his candidacy and emphasized the need for conscientious voting, rejecting attempts to sway voters through monetary inducements or coercion.
Support for Aiyedatiwa’s candidacy was reaffirmed by Speaker Olamide Oladiji, who declared that 18 out of the 26 state lawmakers were ready to endorse the governor. Additionally, members of the House of Representatives from Ondo State unanimously endorsed Aiyedatiwa, praising his leadership and vision for the state’s development.
As the APC gubernatorial primary approaches on April 24, Aiyedatiwa will face competition from several other aspirants, including former Commissioner for Finance, Mr Wale Akinterinwa, and former Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Oladunni Odu, among others.