Former president, Olusegun Obasanjo, yesterday, wished Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State victory in Saturday’s governorship election.
Aiyedatiwa is the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the November 16 election.
Obasanjo wished the governor well in the election when he visited Akure.
The former president is in the state ahead of the inauguration of the Ojaja Park in Akure, an estate developed by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi.
Obasanjo spoke after the governor pleaded to be excused because of tight campaign schedules.
“I understand the challenges of this period for you.
“I remember my campaign in the 1999 election; I covered the entire six states of the South-West in one day.
“I think we started in Akure, Ondo State, then Ekiti and we got to Lagos around 8p.m.
“This is a crucial part of the process and I wish you all the best,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa thanked the former president for the visit.
He acknowledged his contributions to the development of Nigeria, adding that his achievements as President remained indelible.
The governor described Obasanjo as a good recurring decimal in the life of the nation.
Aiyedatiwa said in spite of his high profile and military background, Obasanjo remained a humble and humane leader.
Meanwhile, the Attorney General of Ondo State, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, has boasted that APC will sweep the governorship poll in the 18 Local Government Areas.
According to him, the future of the state will be guaranteed, if the people reelected Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
In the statement entitled: “November 16 is a LUCKY Day”, Ajulo stated that the 2024 Ondo gubernatorial election was already a huge win for the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“Ondo2024: It’s going to be 18-0; Ondo’s Future is Lucky.
“With the wisdom that flows from my modest age and a lifetime of service, I stand today not as a mere observer but as a dedicated advocate for Ondo state’s progress.
” I have walked the path of challenge and triumph which made me clearly understand the full spectrum of victory and defeat.
“This journey has taught me the heart of our people and the essence of what true leadership demands.”
According to Ajulo, the experiences give a clear lens and provide unparalleled insight through which to understand the socio-political landscape of Ondo state.
” I, therefore, approach this moment with deep conviction rather than frivolity. The upcoming Ondo election is not merely a contest; it is a certainty.
” The APC, under the steadfast leadership of Aiyedatiwa, is poised to secure a sweeping victory across all 18 local governments- All, this I affirm.
“This is not mere optimism but a clear recognition of the collective will of the people who seek continuity, stability, and progress.
“Aiyedatiwa’s leadership has ignited a fire of hope, and together, we will carry this flame forward,” he said.
According to the attorney general, in contrast, the opposition party finds itself in a state of disarray, with its candidate struggling for relevance as he’s being haunted by past transgressions.
“The opposition party candidate faces the shadow of apparent disqualification that comes with criminal liabilities, which saw all his party men and women exodus to the APC.
“With members defecting en masse to the APC, it’s evident that the PDP’s foundation has crumbled.
“This election is not only about electing a leader; it is about affirming the aspirations of Ondo’s residents, and choosing a future anchored in integrity, and rejecting a past marked by discord and division,” he said.
Ajulo urged sons and daughters of Ondo state to look beyond rhetoric and recognise the stakes at hand by reflecting Aiyedatiwa.
“This victory will not only belong to the APC but to all who believe in the promise of a better Ondo
” It is the time of the people, and it is with conviction and a resolute spirit that we will emerge victorious to reflect, once and for all, the true will and strength of the people.
“Let us march forward with courage, unity, and the unwavering belief that Ondo’s best days lie ahead,” he added.