With just 48 hours to the much-anticipated governorship election in Ondo State, three gubernatorial candidates have announced their withdrawal from the race, pledging their support for the re-election bid of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The candidates, representing the Accord Party (AP), the National Rescue Movement (NRM), and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), declared their decision during a solidarity visit to the governor on Wednesday.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Dr. Ajibola Falaye, the Accord Party candidate, commended Governor Aiyedatiwa’s achievements and leadership style.
“We have been watching him, and his doors are always open to all,” Falaye stated, lauding the governor’s inclusive governance and commitment to the welfare of Ondo residents.
Highlighting the administration’s track record, particularly in security and infrastructure, Dr. Falaye remarked,
“The state has been experiencing relative peace under his watch, which reflects his commitment to safeguarding the lives of our people. We see the infrastructural development that has taken place even within this short period. It is clear that the governor is actively working for the people. This Saturday, we will turn our commitment into votes. We will vote for continuity in Ondo State.”
Hon. Jenyo Ataunoko, the NRM candidate, and Mr. Olaide Rasheed Ibrahim, the deputy governorship candidate of the ADC, echoed similar sentiments. The ADC’s governorship candidate had earlier declared his support for Aiyedatiwa’s re-election.
In his response, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed gratitude for the endorsement, describing it as an act of statesmanship.
“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 mobilise their supporters to vote for the APC,” he said.
Acknowledging the tight timeline before the polls, the governor urged all party supporters to intensify efforts at mobilizing voters.
“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,” he added.
The governor was joined by prominent figures, including the Governor of Benue State, Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia, and the APC campaign Director General, Hon. Abiola Makinde, in receiving the endorsements.
The decision by these candidates to align with Governor Aiyedatiwa is seen as a significant boost to his re-election campaign, potentially solidifying his chances in Saturday’s poll.
