Today marks the day for the All Progressives Congress in Ondo State to select its gubernatorial candidate, with preparations underway for the primary election.
The ruling party has disclosed that 171,922 members drawn from the 203 wards across the state will participate in the exercise.
Sixteen aspirants are vying for the coveted ticket to become the APC’s gubernatorial candidate.
Among the contenders are Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Olusola Oke, former President of the Nigerian Medical Association Prof. Francis Faduyile, Dr. Funmi Waheed-Adekojo, and the APC National Vice Chairman (South-West) Isaacs Kekemeke. Other aspirants include Dr. Soji Ehinlanwo, Akinfolarin Samuel, Okunjimi Odimayo, Adewale Akinterinwa, Olugbenga Edema, Gen. Ohunyeye Olamide, Morayo Lebi, Garvey Oladiran Iyanjan, and Ifeoluwa Oyedele.
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Aiyedatiwa, using the advantage of his incumbency and widespread endorsements, holds a strategic position in the race.
His Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, expressed confidence, stating, “We are not under any pressure. The primary is just in 24 hours. I am sure by then, everybody will know where they belong.”
Aiyedatiwa emphasized his optimism, noting, “The reality will be on the field tomorrow. He is the governor. There is nothing to worry about.”
Moreover, the governor concluded his campaign tour with a call for continued support from the people, affirming, “The immense support I’ve garnered stresses the resounding desire of the people of Ondo State for continuity.”
However, contender Jimoh Ibrahim cautioned against reliance solely on endorsements, asserting, “An endorsement does not win anybody an election.”
Ibrahim highlighted his extensive experience in previous races and emphasized his qualifications for the position.
Another aspirant, Akinterinwa, exuded confidence ahead of the primary, declaring, “I expect that on Saturday, we will come out as winners of the primaries.”
He underscored the importance of competence and familiarity in governance, expressing readiness for victory.
Female contestant Funmi Waheed-Adekojo expressed her willingness to step down if the APC deems it necessary, stating, “I will step down for my loyalty to the party.”
She emphasized her commitment to the party’s principles and called for a shift away from political permutations towards meritocracy.
Senior Advocate of Nigeria Olusola Oke, buoyed by recent endorsements, remains a formidable contender. Following the collapse of the late Dr. Paul Akintelure’s campaign structure into Oke’s camp, his campaign received a significant boost.
The endorsement aimed to consolidate support for Oke’s bid, with the group urging members to vote for him in the primary election.