By Precious Oluwole

Ahead of the forth coming gubernatorial election coming up in the State in November 16, the three Southwest Governors under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) were in Akure, the Ondo State capital, on Sunday to rally stakeholders of the party in preparation for the governorship election.

The National Chairman of APC, Alhaji Abdullahi Ganduje noted that the purpose of the gathering was to assure Ondo State stakeholders of the party’s unwavering support for Governor Aiyedatiwa.

“This election is critical, and as party leaders, we must treat it with the seriousness it deserves. It is a task we must carry out diligently, not just for the state but for the party at large. This election is a win-win situation for everyone, and as the APC National Chairman, I expect nothing less than 90% of the total votes. Victory in Ondo is non-negotiable”, Ganduje stated.

The State Chairman of APC, Engr. Ade Adetimehin appreciated the Southwest Governors and other APC party leaders for their presence in Ondo State.

The Chairman emphasised the Party’s readiness and victory at the gubernatorial election, predicting 85 percentage victory.

He stressed that the party would continue to support Governor Aiyedatiwa, adding that nobody will be left behind in the party, noting that all members are important.

Lagos State Governor and Chairman, forum of Southwest Governors, Mr Babajide Sawo-Olu commended the peaceful atmosphere in the State, expressing his happiness over the positive comments on Governor Aiyedatiwa. He saluted the courage and achievements of Late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu

He urged the party members to be united, let go of past grudges and relate well.

On his part, Ekiti State Governor, Abiodun Oyebanji, who was in celebration mood of his second year anniversary in office, urged the members of APC, as well as the people of the State to continue to support Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration.

Also speaking, Senate leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele commended Governor Aiyedatiwa’s passion for development and for making his people’s well being his priority.

Former APC gubernatorial aspirant, Chief Olusola Oke, appreciated the party leaders and southwest Governors for their visit, describing it as an encouragement for the party members in the State, he noted that Governor Aiyedatiwa has the welfare of the party and the State in heart.

Speaking on the forth coming election, Oke said “I can assure you that our party will be victorious at the gubernatorial election.

APC National Vice Chairman, Hon. Isaac Kekemeke said “This is an election for us to win, election is like an examination, Governor Lucky is a candidate who passes his continuous assessment and has come to class to answer questions. We must mobilize ourselves for the election”.

He urged members of the party to keep supporting Governor Aiyedatiwa, rally round and canvass support for him.

Former Commisoner for finance and APC gubernatorial aspirant, Mr Wale Akinterinwa debunked the rumour that he left the party, stressing that he and his team remains a commited member of APC and a keen supporter of Governor Aiyedatiwa.

Former Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu, expressed joy at the unity displayed at the meeting, adding that it shows the party is seriously working towards victory.

Odu said: “I am proud to be part of this gathering. Whatever happened in the past is behind us because the party is supreme. Now, we must focus on the future,” she remarked.

Reacting to the endless assurance, Governor Aiyedatiwa appreciated the party leaders and stakeholders for their show of love, unity and commitment.

“I am grateful for the show of solidarity from every corner of our party. Our administration has laid the groundwork for sustainable development, and we cannot afford to let that progress slip away. This election is about moving Ondo forward, and with your unwavering support, we will achieve that.

“We are working to improve infrastructure, enhance security, and create more opportunities for every citizen. With our united front, I have no doubt that we will deliver a resounding victory come November 16,” he added.

The event held at the international culture and events center, Akure, the State capital had in attendance: The Governor of Lagos State and Chairman, forum of Southwest Governors, Babjide Sanwo-Olu, Abiodun, Ekiti State Governor, Dr Abiodun Oyebanji, Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olayide Adelami, Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Tayo Oluwatuyi, Members of the Ondo House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, Former APC Gubernatorial aspirant, Chief Olusola Oke, former Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Alhaji Abdulazeez Oluboyo, Former SSG, Princess Oladunni Odu, Former Commisoner for finance and APC gubernatorial aspirant, Mr Wale Akinterinwa, Dr Olumuyiwa Adu, Heads of Local Governments, among other top eminent personalities.