… Governor, APC leaders vow readiness for Tinubu’s re-election

Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has appealed to voters in Ondo South Senatorial District to turn out en masse and elect the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Prof. Dayo Faduyile, in Saturday’s by-election.

While describing Faduyile as the most qualified aspirant to represent the district in the Senate, Aiyedatiwa stressed that the party’s standard bearer has the capacity to ensure optimal representation for the district.

The by-election, scheduled for June 20, 2026, is being conducted to fill the vacancy created by the appointment of former senator Jimoh Ibrahim as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in June 2026.

Four political parties, including the APC, Allied People’s Movement (APM), Boot Party, and Action Peoples Party (APP), are contesting the vacant seat.

Speaking at the APC grand finale campaign rally in Okitipupa on Thursday, Aiyedatiwa, who was represented by his deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami, appealed to residents to conduct themselves peacefully during the election and ensure their votes count.

The governor said Faduyile possesses the requisite experience, intellect, and leadership qualities needed to effectively articulate the interests of Ondo South at the National Assembly.

According to the governor, the district had enjoyed robust representation under Senator Ibrahim, whom he described as an intellectual of notable standing, stressing that the people must sustain that tradition by electing another candidate of proven competence.

Aiyedatiwa also expressed confidence in the growing acceptance of the APC across the state, reiterating the party’s determination to deliver overwhelming support for President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.

“We have had quality representation in the Senate, and Ondo South must maintain its high standards.” Prof. Faduyile has the capacity and pedigree to continue that legacy,” he said.

On his part, the APC chairman in the state, Babatunde Kolawole, called on party members and stakeholders to intensify grassroots mobilization ahead of the poll, assuring them of the commitment of the State Working Committee (SWC) to securing victory for the party.

The chairman of the campaign committee, Pastor Femi Agagu, described Faduyile as a candidate whose credentials, acceptability, and track record make him an attractive choice for voters across the district.

While speaking on behalf of APC leaders in Ondo South, Olusola Oke and Isaac Kekemeke said the election offers the district an opportunity to reaffirm its support for the ruling party and demonstrate its readiness to contribute significantly to President Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.

The rally attracted prominent party leaders, members of the State Executive Council from the district, elected officials, and representatives of various interest groups, all of whom pledged support for the APC candidate ahead of Saturday’s contest.