Just 48 hours before the Ondo State governorship election, three gubernatorial candidates have withdrawn from the race, endorsing Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The candidates stepping down include those from the Accord Party (AP), the National Rescue Movement (NRM), and the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Governor Aiyedatiwa was joined by Benue State Governor Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia and his campaign’s Director General, Hon. Abiola Makinde, to welcome the endorsement at a solidarity visit in Akure, the state capital.
Dr. Ajibola Falaye, the Accord Party candidate, spoke on behalf of the three endorsing parties, commending Governor Aiyedatiwa’s dedication to Ondo State’s progress and his achievements in office. Hon. Jenyo Ataunoko, the NRM candidate, and Mr. Olaide Rasheed Ibrahim, the ADC’s deputy governorship candidate, joined in the endorsement. This announcement follows the earlier declaration of support for Aiyedatiwa by the ADC’s governorship candidate.
Falaye stated that their support for Aiyedatiwa stems from his commitment to public service, dating back to his time as deputy governor. “We have been observing his work, and he has kept his doors open to all,” Falaye remarked. He praised Aiyedatiwa’s inclusive governance approach and focus on residents’ welfare, noting the governor’s efforts in maintaining peace and security in the state.
Highlighting their alignment with Aiyedatiwa’s administration, Falaye said, “We share the values of progressive politics and goals. The infrastructural development under his administration speaks volumes, even in a short time. This Saturday, we will turn our commitment into votes and support continuity in Ondo State.”
In response, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed his deep gratitude for the endorsement, describing it as a decision made in goodwill. “I didn’t call for this, but I am thankful that my colleagues in this race have voluntarily endorsed my mandate and are ready to mobilize their supporters to vote for the APC,” he said, calling the candidates’ support an act of statesmanship.
He urged all supporters to rally behind the APC, encouraging them to “come out in full force on Saturday to vote for progress in Ondo State.”
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