Kehinde Fajobi
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has commended Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for his resounding victory in the Ondo State governorship election, emphasising that the triumph was achieved without interference from the presidency or external influences.
Ganduje made this assertion on Wednesday at the APC national secretariat in Abuja while receiving Aiyedatiwa and his deputy, Dr Olayide Adelami, following their presentation of certificates of return by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
“The people of Ondo State knew who they wanted and voted for integrity, continuity, and good leadership,” Ganduje said, adding that the victory in 202 of 203 wards highlighted the party’s overwhelming acceptance in the state.
He attributed the win to unity among APC leaders and the electorate’s trust in the party’s leadership.
He also urged Aiyedatiwa to build on the achievements of his late predecessor, Rotimi Akeredolu, and ensure equitable development across the state.
“Avoid the abandonment of projects and work for the progress of all,” Ganduje advised.
In his remarks, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed gratitude to the APC leadership and Ondo voters, describing his win as a mandate for service.
“With the massive votes given to us, the people have placed a burden on us to do more than what we achieved in the last 10 months,” he said.
He also credited Ganduje’s strategic planning and mobilisation skills for APC’s victories in Ondo and Edo states, projecting further success in Osun.
Reflecting on the party’s dominance in the state, APC State Chairman Engr Ade Adetimehin declared the November 16 election as the end of the opposition in Ondo.
“We broke records by winning in all 18 local government areas of the state. This victory shows the people’s love for APC and President Bola Tinubu’s leadership,” he said.
Adetimehin further pledged to strengthen the party’s position, asserting, “We have finally killed PDP in Ondo State.
“The outcome of the election has shown the whole world that there is no PDP here anymore.”
The APC leadership hailed the unprecedented victory, reaffirming its commitment to consolidating its dominance in Ondo State and beyond.