Paragraph 1: Dismissing Rumors of Discord
Recent social media reports have suggested a rift between Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and the Minister for Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. These rumors, fueled by online speculation and purportedly stemming from the supporters of both figures, allege a growing tension and “cold war” between the two political leaders. However, both Tunji-Ojo and a prominent group of APC elders in Ondo State have firmly dismissed these reports as baseless. They assert that the alleged discord exists only in the realm of social media conjecture and not in reality.
Paragraph 2: Minister’s Focus on Presidential Agenda
Minister Tunji-Ojo, speaking through an aide at a free medical outreach event in Ikare Akoko, emphasized his commitment to supporting President Bola Tinubu’s agenda. He stressed that his ministerial role in Abuja doesn’t diminish his connection to his home state of Ondo and that his primary focus is on facilitating the success of the President’s initiatives. He highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in promoting the achievements of the Tinubu administration, implying a united front within the party.
Paragraph 3: Grassroots Mobilization and Nationwide Support
Tunji-Ojo addressed the speculations directly, stating unequivocally that there is no conflict between himself and Governor Aiyedatiwa. He underscored the importance of working together to advance the President’s vision. He also clarified his relationship with the Grassroots Mobilization Team (GMT), a nationwide movement supporting President Tinubu. The Minister praised the GMT’s initiatives, particularly its free medical outreach programs, and pledged continued support for their efforts to promote the President’s agenda at the grassroots level.
Paragraph 4: GMT’s Healthcare Initiative and Commitment to Tinubu
The GMT, led by Director General Saka Yusuf-Ogunleye, organized the free medical outreach in Ondo North Senatorial District, aiming to serve approximately 1,000 beneficiaries per district and expand its reach to constituencies. Yusuf-Ogunleye expressed gratitude for Minister Tunji-Ojo’s support and affirmed the GMT’s commitment to partnering with the government and implementing robust initiatives to bolster President Tinubu’s image and agenda. The medical outreach itself reflects the GMT’s focus on practical, impactful programs directly benefiting the community.
Paragraph 5: Ondo Elders Prioritize Party Unity and 2027 Elections
The Ondo Mandate Elders Forum, a group of influential APC elders in Ondo State, echoed Minister Tunji-Ojo’s denial of any rift between him and Governor Aiyedatiwa. Meeting at the residence of their chairman, Chief Erastus Alejo, the elders emphasized their primary goal of fostering unity within the party as they look ahead to the 2027 presidential election. They characterized the reported discord as a product of social media speculation, not reflective of the actual relationship between the two leaders.
Paragraph 6: Focus on Tinubu’s Re-election, Not Internal Disputes
Dr. Demola Ijabiyi, facilitator of the Ondo Mandate Elders Forum, reiterated the elders’ stance, dismissing the rumors of a rift and stating that there was no need for reconciliation between the Governor and the Minister. He emphasized that their priority was not addressing non-existent disputes but rather mobilizing support for President Tinubu to secure a resounding victory in the 2027 elections. This focus on the larger political landscape underscores the elders’ commitment to the party’s overall success and their belief that internal unity is crucial for achieving that goal. The consistent message from all parties involved is one of unity, collaboration, and a shared commitment to advancing President Tinubu’s political agenda.
