Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has confidently addressed the perceived challenge posed by 15 governorship aspirants within the All Progressives Congress (APC) vying for the party’s ticket in the upcoming primary election slated for April 20.
Governor Aiyedatiwa’s remarks followed his official submission of Expression of Interest and Nomination forms at the APC’s national secretariat in Abuja on Thursday. Speaking to journalists in Abuja, he appeared undeterred by the crowded field of contenders within his party, signaling his readiness to face them in the primary election.
His bold stance underscores the intense competition and political maneuvering leading up to the primaries, with various aspirants seeking to secure the APC’s gubernatorial ticket for Ondo State.
Aiyedatiwa’s decision to seek re-election and his confidence in overcoming intra-party challenges set the stage for what promises to be a fiercely contested primary in one of Nigeria’s key states.
Despite the formidable lineup of contenders, including notable figures such as Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, Olusola Oke, Prof. Francis Faduyile, and others, Aiyedatiwa asserted his position as the aspirant to beat ahead of the shadow poll, expressing no fear of his co-contestants.
He stated, “I am aware we have 15 other aspirants jostling for this same office. They are also eminently qualified. Let me say here that I respect all of them. But we know ourselves. They have been around. We know who they are and what they can do. They are illustrious sons and daughters of the land. But I can tell you there is nothing to fear.”
Aiyedatiwa emphasized the overwhelming support he has garnered from the people of Ondo State, including youth, women, traders, farmers, artisans, and workers, who are clamoring for his continuation as governor.
“In fact, they have spoken. So there is nothing to fear,” he added.
Reflecting on his tenure as deputy governor and subsequent elevation to the governorship position, Aiyedatiwa highlighted the widespread demand for his continued leadership based on his accomplishments within a short period.
His decision to contest, he explained, was driven by the yearning and aspiration of the people, who have witnessed tangible progress under his administration and expressed their desire for him to continue leading the state.
As the primary election approaches, all eyes will be on Ondo State as the APC gubernatorial aspirants vie for the party’s ticket, with Governor Aiyedatiwa setting a confident tone amidst the competition.
