Three gubernatorial candidates have withdrawn their bids and thrown their support behind incumbent Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC), potentially reshaping the electoral dynamics in the southwestern state.
The dramatic announcement came during a solidarity visit to the governor, as confirmed by his Chief Press Secretary, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan. The candidates who stepped down include Dr. Ajibola Falaye of the Accord Party, Hon. Jenyo Ataunko of the National Rescue Movement (NRM), and Olaide Ibrahim representing the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Speaking on behalf of the withdrawing candidates, Dr. Falaye cited Governor Aiyedatiwa’s demonstrated commitment to public service and his impressive performance during his tenure as key factors in their decision. He particularly emphasized the governor’s open-door policy and inclusive approach to governance, which has fostered a more collaborative political environment in the state.
The endorsement carries additional weight given the timing, coming just days before the crucial gubernatorial poll. Dr. Falaye highlighted specific achievements under Aiyedatiwa’s leadership, notably the improved security situation in Ondo State. “The state has been experiencing relative peace under his watch, which reflects his commitment to safeguarding the lives of our people,” he remarked during the endorsement ceremony.
The alignment of political ideologies played a crucial role in this decision, with the three parties finding common ground with Aiyedatiwa’s progressive agenda. The candidates expressed particular appreciation for the infrastructural developments implemented during the governor’s administration, despite his relatively short time in office.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, who received the endorsement in the presence of Benue State Governor Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia and campaign Director General Hon Abiola Makinde, expressed genuine surprise and gratitude for the voluntary support. 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 stated.
The political landscape in Ondo State has seen several significant shifts in recent days. The Court of Appeal in Abuja recently disqualified Olusola Ebiseni as the Labour Party candidate, further altering the electoral equation. Meanwhile, former Vice President and PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has publicly backed his party’s candidate, Mr. Agboola Ajayi, urging voters to remain steadfast and resist intimidation.
With the election just days away, Governor Aiyedatiwa has called on his new supporters to mobilize their base quickly. “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 urged during the endorsement meeting.
This consolidation of support behind Aiyedatiwa could prove crucial in what has been shaping up to be a highly competitive race. The withdrawal of three candidates and their subsequent endorsement of the incumbent governor represents a significant boost to the APC’s chances, potentially simplifying voters’ choices and concentrating the opposition vote.
The development also highlights the fluid nature of political alliances in Nigerian politics, where candidate withdrawals and endorsements can significantly impact electoral outcomes. As Ondo State residents prepare to head to the polls, this latest political realignment could prove decisive in determining who will lead the state for the next four years.
As Saturday’s election approaches, all eyes are now on how effectively these endorsements will translate into votes and whether this consolidation of support will be enough to secure victory for Governor Aiyedatiwa and the APC in what remains a closely watched gubernatorial contest.
