Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has expressed a strong belief that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will emerge victorious in the upcoming governorship election in Ondo State on November 16. This proclamation comes in response to claims made by the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, indicating a possible takeover of South West states by the APC following the Ondo election. Makinde’s comments were made during a campaign event in Ikare Akoko, where he aimed to bolster the confidence of PDP supporters against the backdrop of skepticism voiced by current Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who suggested that the PDP presence in the state was all but extinguished.
During a campaign visit to the Akoko region, Governor Makinde declared the PDP still strong and capable of winning in Ondo. He criticized Ganduje’s assumptions about APC’s dominance in the region, asserting that the people of Ondo would decisively demonstrate their political preferences at the ballot box. Makinde emphasized the enthusiasm and attendance at his rally, using it as evidence of the PDP’s enduring strength and the people’s resolve to reject the APC narrative that the party is surpassing them in popularity.
Responding directly to Aiyedatiwa’s comments regarding a ‘dead’ PDP in Ondo, Makinde retorted by stating that while opinions are easy to voice, the true test will come on election day. He confidently predicted that the PDP would emerge victorious, proclaiming Agboola Ajayi as the projected governor-elect based on the palpable sentiment among the state’s populace. Makinde urged party supporters to remain steadfast in their belief, asserting that the upcoming election would serve as a definitive statement by the people of Ondo against the claims of the opposing party.
Makinde and Ajayi’s campaign has been extensive, reaching several local government areas, including Akoko North-West and North-East. They sought to engage with traditional rulers, acknowledging their influence and promising their inclusion in governance. This strategy aims to build trust and ensure community support while reinforcing Ajayi’s commitment to enhance local governance through better management of education, healthcare, and security. The campaign narrative emphasizes a stark contrast to the governance model advocated by the APC, focusing on a vision that includes cooperation with local leadership.
A significant part of their rally has been the defection of individuals from other political parties to the PDP, which they framed as a sign of growing support and dissatisfaction with the current regime. Ajayi reinforced the idea of improved governance, inviting citizens to envision a future where traditional rulership plays a crucial role in administrative processes. He assured that various initiatives would empower traditional rulers, integrating them into security and project oversight, thus establishing a collaborative governance structure meant to resonate with the people.
Ajayi’s message was underscored by a call for peaceful conduct during the elections. He urged traditional leaders to discourage violence and to support a fair electoral process, drawing on historical memories of electoral strife in 1983. His commitment to a transparent and inclusive election echoes a broader democratic ethos, aiming to consolidate his base and mitigate potential electoral upheaval. By fostering relationships with traditional rulers and emphasizing peace, Ajayi hopes to enhance the credibility of his governance promises while rallying the electorate to support the PDP on November 16. With solid leadership aspirations and a focus on community involvement, the PDP is aiming for a comprehensive comeback in Ondo State as voters weigh their choices.
