Ondo election: SDP deputy governor candidate defects to APC

The deputy governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Susan Alabi, has defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the forthcoming November 16 governorship election in Ondo State.

Alabi, who was received into the ruling APC fold during the campaign tour of Akoko North West Local Council Area of the state by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and the Chairman of the party in the state, Ade Adetimehin, had a few weeks ago resigned her membership in the SDP.

After dumping the party on October 2, 2024, she stepped down as the running mate to the governorship candidate of the party, Bamidele Akingboye, following the notification of the National Chairman, Shehu Musa Gabam, of her decision.

Meanwhile, Aiyedatiwa, who is the standard-bearer of the party, stated during the campaign that the 2025 budget of his administration will be meticulously structured to capture the developmental needs of every part of the state.

Speaking at Ogbagi Akoko, he said: “The 2025 budget will be well-structured to ensure that no part of Ondo State is left behind. We are already making progress across various sectors, but development is a process, and we must take it step by step. Infrastructure and other essential services will reach your region soon.”

“I am thankful for the love and support you showed during the primaries. Your endorsement today strengthens my resolve to continue serving you diligently. All the monarchs across the local government areas are speaking with one voice, endorsing our vision and backing this campaign.”

Speaking on behalf of the 27 traditional rulers in the area, the Owa of Ogbagi, Oba Olasehinde Adetona, assured the governor of their unwavering support ahead of the election.

“In Akoko North West, there is no opposition against your candidature; we will deliver our votes because we trust your leadership and know you will continue performing excellently,” the monarch said, while also outlining the developmental challenges of the area.

Ifeoluwa Ehindero, a member of the House of Representatives for Akoko North East/Akoko North West federal constituency, also rallied support for the governor.

“Governor Aiyedatiwa has demonstrated outstanding leadership, and we must ensure he continues his work. I urge everyone to come out on election day and vote for him,” Ehindero said.

While addressing party faithful in Oke Irun, Aiyedatiwa stressed the crucial role their unwavering support will play in securing victory for the party in the coming election, stressing that the success of the APC depends heavily on their unity, commitment, and active participation throughout the campaign and on election day.

At Afin-Akoko, the governor, while addressing enthusiastic supporters, explained that his decision to pass through all the major areas within the local government was deliberate.

He noted that by personally visiting the communities, he could better understand their challenges firsthand and gain deeper insight into their pressing needs to enable him to take swift and targeted actions to address them.

He said, “I came through every key area not by accident but intentionally, so I can see things for myself and listen to your challenges directly. This way, I can respond promptly and ensure that no issue affecting your communities is overlooked.”

Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive development, promising that the concerns raised during his tour would be reflected in future planning and projects aimed at uplifting the state and improving the quality of life for all residents.