Gov Aiyedatiwa rallies support for Tinubu’s re-election, hints at return of aides

By Tolulope Eniola

Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has called for intensified grassroots mobilisation in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election, expressing confidence in the state’s readiness to deliver overwhelming votes in the 2027 general elections.

Speaking while leading a half-a-million-man walk in Akure in support of the 2027 re-election bid, the governor urged party faithful to take the campaign beyond the state capital to the wards and polling units, where he said the real political work lies.

The procession, which began at the Government House and terminated at the Akure Township Stadium, was organised by a Tinubu support group under the leadership of the immediate past Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Sports, Kehinde Akinrotoye, as part of ongoing mobilisation efforts across the state.

He described the walk as a coordination effort, noting that supporters would soon disperse to their respective local government areas to drive the mobilisation process.

Aiyedatiwa commended participants for their voluntary turnout, stating that their commitment without inducement reflects strong loyalty to the party and its leadership.

The governor also reassured recently relieved political aides that their disengagement was not final, revealing that plans are underway to appoint up to 1,000 aides, a development that could see many of them return to government.

According to him, although about 650 aides were previously in service, the new structure is intended to expand opportunities and improve governance. He added that some aides, whose roles are critical, would continue to work closely with him.

The governor further commended the Commissioner for Youth Development for efforts in mobilising young people through sports and organisational initiatives, describing such engagements as key to political success.

Encouraging both physical and spiritual well-being, Aiyedatiwa urged residents to engage in regular exercise and observe periods of fasting and prayer, noting their importance for overall health and productivity.

He declared the month of April a season of strength and vitality, expressing optimism that the people of Ondo State would remain united and committed to achieving the party’s goals.

Speaking earlier, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Segun Omoyofunmi, said the massive turnout demonstrated the readiness of supporters to back the President’s re-election.

He expressed confidence that under Aiyedatiwa’s leadership, the state would deliver overwhelming support at the polls.

“What we have witnessed is a clear indication of commitment. With the governor providing leadership, Ondo State will deliver massively.

“By February, we are looking at nothing short of one million votes,” he declared.