Less than 48 hours before the Ondo State governorship election, three gubernatorial candidates have stepped down in support of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
The candidates who endorsed Aiyedatiwa include Dr. Ajibola Falaye of the Accord Party, Hon. Jenyo Ataunko of the National Rescue Movement, and Olaide Ibrahim of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The endorsement was confirmed by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Aiyedatiwa, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, in a statement issued on Thursday in Akure.
Adeniyan revealed that the three candidates paid a solidarity visit to the governor, where they formally announced their decision to support his re-election bid.
Dr. Falaye, speaking on behalf of the endorsing candidates, cited Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to public service, his track record, and his performance in office as the basis for their support.
He said, “We have been watching him, and his doors are always open to all,” Falaye stated, commending the governor for his inclusive approach to governance and for prioritising the welfare of residents.
He pointed to the governor’s record on security, stating, “The state has been experiencing relative peace under his watch, which reflects his commitment to safeguarding the lives of our people.”
The Accord Party candidate also noted the shared values of progressive politics and goals that NRM, ADC, and Accord find in alignment with the Aiyedatiwa’s administration.
He said, “We see the infrastructural development that has taken place even within this short period. It is clear that the governor is actively working for the people. This Saturday, we will turn our commitment into votes. We will vote for continuity in Ondo State.”
In his response, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed deep gratitude for the endorsement, calling it a quality decision made out of goodwill by the candidates and their parties.
“I didn’t call for this, but I am grateful that my colleagues in the race have voluntarily identified with my mandate and are ready to mobilise their supporters to vote for the APC,” the Governor said.
Aiyedatiwa warmly welcomed the candidates’ decision to unite behind him, describing it as an act of statesmanship.
Acknowledging the short time remaining before election, the Governor said: “There’s no time left. I appeal to you all to encourage your members to come out in full force on Saturday and cast their votes for the APC”
Benue Governor Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia and the Director General of the campaign, Hon Abiola Makinde, among others, joined Governor Aiyedatiwa to receive the three candidates.