President Bola Tinubu has thrown his full weight behind Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s bid in the upcoming Ondo State gubernatorial election, dispatching a high-powered delegation led by Vice President Kashim Shettima to rally support at the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign finale in Akure.
The grand rally, which transformed the state capital into a hub of political activity, saw an impressive assembly of APC governors, federal ministers, and party stalwarts uniting to champion Aiyedatiwa’s candidacy alongside his running mate, Olayide Adelami. The gathering marked a crucial moment in the campaign’s final stretch before Saturday’s election.
Vice President Shettima, speaking on behalf of President Tinubu, emphasized the strategic importance of Ondo State to the ruling party’s political architecture and highlighted the administration’s commitment to the state’s development. The Vice President’s presence, necessitated by what he described as “exigencies of office” keeping the President away, delivered a powerful message about the federal government’s stake in the election’s outcome.
In a poignant moment during the rally, Governor Aiyedatiwa connected his candidacy to the legacy of his predecessor, the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, suggesting that his former boss would have endorsed his succession bid. This emotional appeal sought to establish continuity with Akeredolu’s administration while positioning Aiyedatiwa as the natural heir to the state’s leadership.
The impressive turnout of APC governors demonstrated the party’s unified approach to the election. Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, Abiodun Oyebanji of Ekiti, and Hope Uzodinma of Imo State all lent their presence to the campaign, underlining the regional and national significance of the Ondo gubernatorial race.
The federal government’s commitment was further emphasized by the presence of key cabinet members, including Minister of Blue Economy Gboyega Oyetola, Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and Minister of Youth Development Ayo Olawande. Their attendance highlighted the administration’s multi-faceted support for Aiyedatiwa’s candidacy.
Vice President Shettima’s message to the voters was particularly noteworthy, framing the election as more than just a political contest but as an opportunity for the people of Ondo State to assert their political will. His emphasis on the vote as a voice and conviction sought to elevate the electoral process beyond partisan politics to a matter of civic responsibility and state pride.
The campaign finale also saw the participation of influential party figures such as Senators Opeyemi Bamidele and Adams Oshiomhole, adding their political weight to the campaign’s final push. Their presence helped underscore the broad coalition of support behind Aiyedatiwa’s candidacy.
The APC’s campaign message centered on continuity and progress, with speakers highlighting the attention and resources the state has received under the party’s leadership. This narrative aims to convince voters that maintaining APC governance would ensure continued federal support and development projects for Ondo State.
As the election approaches, the rally served as a demonstration of the APC’s organizational strength and its ability to mobilize both state and federal resources in support of its candidate. The presence of multiple governors and federal ministers sent a clear message about the party’s unified approach to the election and its determination to retain control of Ondo State.
The gathering in Akure represented more than just a campaign event; it symbolized the convergence of state and federal interests in Ondo’s political future. As voters prepare to head to the polls, the APC’s show of force at the campaign finale has set the stage for what promises to be a closely watched election with significant implications for both state and national politics.
The outcome of Saturday’s election will not only determine Ondo’s leadership for the next four years but could also influence the broader political landscape of the Southwest region and the nation at large, making it a crucial test of the APC’s political strength and organizational capabilities.
