A prominent political figure in Ondo State, Prince Olujimi Adekanle, popularly known as JAF, has publicly declared support for the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji Ojo, popularly called BTO, amid his ongoing political fallout with Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
JAF made the declaration through a statement posted on his social media page, where he praised Tunji Ojo’s leadership qualities and described him as a politician capable of giving the people a true sense of belonging.
“If we have just two of BTOs in Ondo State, the people will have a sense of belonging,” JAF wrote.
He further declared: “Today, I publicly declare that you are my leader. Leadership is not by age but by wisdom and compassion.”
The declaration is coming weeks after JAF openly criticized Governor Aiyedatiwa following what political observers described as a breakdown their once-close political relationship.
JAF had reportedly sought support for his ambition to contest an elective position to represent the Okitipupa/Irele Federal Constituency but was allegedly denied backing from the governor’s camp.
The development shocked many political stakeholders in Ondo State, especially considering JAF’s strong role in supporting Aiyedatiwa during the political crisis that trailed the illness and eventual death of former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.
JAF was among vocal supporters who defended Aiyedatiwa during the power struggle involving allies and family members of the late governor. He also campaigned vigorously for Aiyedatiwa during the governorship election that eventually produced him as Ondo State governor.
However, relations between both men have deteriorated sharply in recent weeks, with JAF describing the governor as ungrateful” and accusing him of surrounding himself with insincere elements.
In a lengthy political commentary, JAF warned against what he termed the “misconception of luck for leadership,” arguing that governance requires vision, competence, strategic planning, accountability, and compassion rather than reliance on political fortune.
According to him, effective governance must be driven by sound policy-making, teamwork, transparency, and proactive leadership capable of delivering meaningful results to citizens.
Political observers remain divided over the development, noting that JAF was not the only prominent supporter of Governor Aiyedatiwa allegedly sidelined or excluded from the state’s political patronage structure and power-sharing arrangements after the governor assumed office.
However, some critics also argue that JAF lacks a consistent political followership despite his vocal presence in the state’s political landscape.
Political analysts also believe JAF’s latest endorsement of Tunji Ojo may further reshape political alignments within the Ondo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress ahead of future political contests.
