Ahead of Saturday’s governorship poll in Ondo State, three gubernatorial candidates have stepped down for the candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
The Chief Press Secretary to Governor Ayedatiwa, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, confirmed on Thursday that Dr. Ajibola Falaye, Hon. Jenyo Ataunko, and Olaide Ibrahim of the Accord Party, the National Rescue Movement, and the African Democratic Congress have dropped their ambition.
The spokesperson to Ayedatiwa said the endorsement came when the three candidates paid a solidarity visit to the governor.
Speaking on behalf of the candidate, Dr. Falaye hinged their decision to back the governor on his commitment to public service, track record, and outstanding performance in office.
“We have been watching him, and his doors are always open to all,” Falaye stated, commending the governor for his inclusive approach to governance and for prioritising the welfare of residents.
He pointed to the governor’s record on security, stating: “The state has been experiencing relative peace under his watch, which reflects his commitment to safeguarding the lives of our people.”
The Accord Party candidate also noted the shared values of progressive politics and goals that NRM, ADC, and Accord find in alignment with the Aiyedatiwa’s administration.
“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.”
In his response, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed deep gratitude for the endorsement, calling it a quality decision made out of goodwill by the candidates and their parties.
“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,” the governor said.
Aiyedatiwa warmly welcomed the candidates’ decision to unite behind him, describing it as an act of statesmanship.
Acknowledging the short time remaining before the election, the governor said: “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.”
This comes as Benue Governor Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia and the Director General of the campaign, Hon Abiola Makinde, among others, joined Governor Aiyedatiwa to receive the three candidates.