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By John Ogunsemore
Three gubernatorial candidates in Ondo State have withdrawn from Saturday’s election and endorsed Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The candidates are of the Accord Party, the National Rescue Movement (NRM) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The governor’s spokesman, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan disclosed that the endorsement came during a solidarity visit to the governor, where Dr. Ajibola Falaye, candidate of the Accord Party, spoke on behalf of the three parties on Thursday, November 14.
The other two are the governorship candidate of the NRM, Hon. Jenyo Ataunoko and the deputy governorship candidate of the ADC, Mr Olaide Rasheed Ibrahim.
The governorship candidate of the ADC had earlier declared support for Aiyedatiwa.
Speaking on behalf of the group, the Accord Party candidate praised Aiyedatiwa’s dedication to the progress of Ondo State while citing his achievements in office.
Falaye stated that their decision to back the governor for Saturday’s election was based on observations of his longstanding commitment to public service, tracing back to his time as the deputy governor.
“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.
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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.”
Falaye 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.”
Responding, 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.
Welcoming the candidates’ decision to unite behind him, the APC candidate described it as an act of statesmanship.
Aiyedatiwa added, “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.”
The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia and the Director General of Aiyedatiwa campaign, Hon. Abiola Makinde, among others, joined the Ondo governor to receive the three candidates.
