Aiyedatiwa Gets Massive Backing in Ondo 

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has faced continuous challenges since assuming office. Despite recently securing victory in the gubernatorial election, his journey has been fraught with opposition and internal party conflicts. However, recent developments indicate a positive shift as more allies rally behind him, signalling a potential turning point in his administration.

In a significant boost for Aiyedatiwa, seven aspirants from the All Progressive Congress (APC) have reportedly endorsed his position as governor and the reconciliation efforts within the party. Among these aspirants are Hon. Mayowa Akinfolarin, Prof. Dayo Faduyile, Hon. Jimi Odimayo, Engr. Funmilayo Waheed-Adekojo, Prince Diran Iyantan, Soji Ehinlanwo, and Morayo Lebi. These leaders, who initially contested the governorship primary, had previously criticised the election’s conduct, alleging irregularities orchestrated by the primary committee under Kogi State Governor Ahmed Ododo.

Even more shocking is the fact that Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, representing Ondo South Senatorial District, recently withdrew his lawsuit against Aiyedatiwa which sought to annul the primary election results. Reportedly, Ibrahim decided against going through with the case after a personal intervention by President Bola Tinubu. In other words, Tinubu might be one of Aiyedatiwa’s backers.

Despite these positive developments, the APC still faces internal challenges. Political observers remain cautious, believing that not all grievances within the party have been resolved. Some members may choose to remain passive rather than actively support Aiyedatiwa. But much of the waves against him have been settled.

It must be noted that among the candidates for the November 16 governorship election are prominent figures from major political parties, including the APC’s Aiyedatiwa with his deputy, Olayide Adelami, and the People’s Democratic Party’s (PDP) Agboola Ajayi with his deputy, Samuel Ogunmusi. The Labour Party also poses a significant threat, with its candidate Ayodele Olorunfemi and his running mate, Olabisi Adu, vowing to take back the state.

Therefore, Aiyedatiwa needs all the backing he can get. This is exactly what he is currently getting. Even though the journey ahead remains challenging, the growing support for him means that there isn’t much he needs to fear.