As the political climate in Ondo State heats up ahead of the governorship election scheduled for November 16, 2023, the landscape is marked by increasing support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, has taken a significant step in mobilizing support from the Ebira community within Ondo State, urging them to rally behind Aiyedatiwa. Speaking on behalf of the community during a recent gathering in Owo Local Government Area, Ododo emphasized their collective decision to endorse the APC candidate, highlighting a deep-rooted commitment to ensuring Aiyedatiwa’s victory in the upcoming election.
Governor Ododo’s proclamation of support underscores the sense of unity among the Ebira people, who he states have resolved to cast their votes for Aiyedatiwa and the APC. The endorsement is framed as a tribute to the legacy of the late Governor Akeredolu, with Ododo asserting that Aiyedatiwa has successfully continued the good work initiated by his predecessor. His remarks convey a strong belief in Aiyedatiwa’s capabilities, emphasizing that the candidate has been “tested and trusted” in governance. The declaration of “100 percent” support from the Ebira community positions them as a crucial voting bloc in the looming electoral contest.
In response, Governor Aiyedatiwa has expressed profound gratitude to the Ebira community for their backing, acknowledging their pivotal role in the election. He has also commended President Bola Tinubu for his ongoing commitment to the economic advancement of Ondo State since taking office. Aiyedatiwa’s remarks resonate with a broader narrative of continuity and progress, framing his candidacy as an extension of the previous administration’s efforts. His gratitude extends beyond the local community, recognizing the importance of inter-state collaboration and support in governance, as exemplified by Governor Ododo’s visit and mobilization efforts.
Furthermore, Dr. Olayide Adelami, the APC deputy governorship candidate and current Deputy Governor of Ondo State, has also expressed appreciation for the support being accorded to Aiyedatiwa by Gov. Ododo. His comments underline the importance of solidarity across political and geographic boundaries in the pursuit of collective growth and success. He praised Ododo’s dedication to unifying people for the party’s success and highlighted the commitment of their administration to inclusivity in governance—a promise aimed at ensuring that all groups, including non-indigenes, have a voice in the state’s decision-making processes.
This political strategy not only strengthens the APC’s position ahead of the election but also reinforces the narrative of unity and development amidst a competitive political environment. As various candidates, including 15 others alongside Aiyedatiwa from different parties, vie for the attention of voters, the APC’s outreach to the Ebira community marks a vital effort to build a coalition of support. Such initiatives are critical in a multi-party system where diverse constituencies must be mobilized to secure electoral victory. The assembly of community leaders and political figures expressing solidarity with Aiyedatiwa signifies an organized approach to galvanizing support, essential for thriving in the politically charged atmosphere as the election date approaches.
The forthcoming governorship election in Ondo State serves as a significant moment for political engagement and community action, with the APC striving to consolidate its power by fostering alliances with influential groups. As the campaign unfolds, the emphasis on economic development and continuity from previous leadership will likely be central themes in Aiyedatiwa’s strategy. The collaboration between political leaders and communities like the Ebira, rooted in mutual trust and shared goals, may prove to be a decisive factor as voters head to the polls on November 16. Ultimately, the culmination of these efforts will not only determine the future leadership of Ondo State but also shape the broader political narrative in Nigeria as regional concerns are addressed within the context of national governance.
