Aiyedatiwa and 15 Contenders Vie for Ondo APC Governorship Ticket

All eyes are on the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State as it prepares to elect its governorship candidate for the upcoming election.

A total of 171,922 members from the state’s 203 wards across 18 local government areas will participate in today’s primary election.

Sixteen aspirants are vying for the coveted ticket, including incumbent Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Olusola Oke, former President of Nigerian Medical Association Prof. Francis Faduyile, Dr. Funmi Waheed-Adekojo, and APC National Vice Chairman (South-West) Isaacs Kekemeke.

The primary promises to be a hotly contested event, with Governor Aiyedatiwa holding a strong position due to his incumbency and endorsements from traditional rulers and the majority of state lawmakers.

Aiyedatiwa, who recently concluded his campaign tour in three council areas, expressed confidence in his continued support from the people.

He emphasized the desire for continuity in governance and development.

However, other contenders, such as Senator Ibrahim, have warned that endorsements do not guarantee victory in the election.

Ibrahim, who has been in the race since as far back as 2003, believes he is the most qualified candidate based on his experience and the support he has garnered over the years.

Another aspirant, Akinterinwa, has also completed his campaign tour and expressed confidence in his ability to win the primary.

He highlighted his knowledge, capacity, and experience as key factors that set him apart from other candidates.

In a surprising turn of events, female contestant Funmi Waheed-Adekojo has announced her willingness to step down if the APC calls for it. This decision demonstrates her loyalty to the party and her commitment to unity.

The race has also seen the late Dr. Paul Akintelure’s campaign organization merge with the camp of Olusola Oke.

This development is expected to strengthen Oke’s position in the primary.

As the primary unfolds, the people of Ondo State eagerly await the outcome, which will determine the APC’s candidate for the November 16 governorship election.

The primary is set to be a crucial moment in the state’s political landscape, with implications for the future of governance and development in Ondo State.