Former Senator representing Ondo Central Senatorial District, Ayo Akinyelure, has dismissed speculation of any political understanding or alliance with Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

According to Akinyelure, who is contesting the senatorial seat under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), his recent interactions with the Aiyedatiwa at the Government House were neither political negotiations nor attempts to secure personal favors.

Speaking at a media briefing held in Akure, the state capital, Akinyelure, who represented Ondo Central in both the 7th and 9th Senates, clarified that his meetings with the governor were strictly to seek clarification on his political future within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and to express gratitude for what he described as the governor’s honesty regarding the party’s senatorial ticket for the 2027 election.

According to the former lawmaker, Governor Aiyedatiwa informed him directly that the APC senatorial ticket for Ondo Central had already been decided and that he would not be considered for it.

Akinyelure explained that his decision to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC) was informed by the need to remain politically relevant and continue serving the people of Ondo Central.

He noted that staying in active politics over a long period is what makes a representative truly relevant to constituents and that when a political party refuses to grant a ticket, it becomes necessary to seek a platform where both personal and constituent interests can be protected.

The former senator also emphasized that integrity remains the highest calling in his political training, noting that the PDP gave him a mandate, which he completed before resigning his membership on May 30, 2023, after serving out his four-year term.

He revealed that the ADC approached him after his exit from the APC became inevitable, offering him a platform to continue his political aspirations.

According to him, the party recognized his political value and presented a seat for him, which he accepted after the APC effectively ended his chances of returning to the Senate under its banner.

Akinyelure further dismissed suggestions that his political moves were tied to any emerging coalition against the ruling party, insisting that his focus remains on effective representation rather than partisan alignments.

He stated that any voter in Ondo Central who believes he represented them well should feel free to vote for him regardless of their political affiliation, whether APC, ADC, Labour Party, or Social Democratic Party (SDP), stressing that what matters most is good representation.

The former senator also declared his preference for elective office over political appointments, explaining that elected officials enjoy greater stability and accountability to the electorate.

He noted that a federal appointment can be revoked at any time, whereas a democratically elected official can only be removed through death or constitutional processes before the end of their tenure.

Akinyelure said his quest to return to the Senate is also driven by a desire to complete legislative initiatives he left behind, including bills he is supposed to conclude.

He maintained that regardless of who emerges as Nigeria’s president in 2027, he possesses the experience and political network required to attract federal opportunities and development projects to Ondo Central.