Ondo APC Governorship Race Intensifies as Aspirants Strategically Lobby First Lady, Tinubu’s Daughter, Ganduje

As the April governorship primary election for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State approaches, intense lobbying among aspirants has kicked off, with a shifting landscape of potential endorsements.

Key players in the race, including Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Olusola Oke, Isaac Kekemeke, Mayowa Akinfolarin, Wale Akinterinwa, Jimoh Ibrahim, Gbenga Edema, Dr. Paul Akintelure, and Mr. Jimi Odumayo, are actively engaging with influential figures within the Presidency and close associates of President Bola Tinubu.

Sources reveal that the aspirants have reached out to notable figures such as the first lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and the President’s daughter, Mrs. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo. Additionally, contacts have been made with the national leader of Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, and the Umar Ganduje-led National Working Committee of the APC.

While Jimoh Ibrahim is leveraging his relationship with President Tinubu, Governor Aiyedatiwa is counting on the support he received from Ganduje during a previous political crisis. However, Ganduje has reportedly communicated that the final decision rests with the President.

The party is also considering a neutral candidate who wasn’t involved in the recent political crisis in the state.

Akinfolarin, with backing from Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila and Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, stands out, indicating the complex web of alliances within the party.

Governor Aiyedatiwa faces challenges, including the violation of the 2023 Abuja Peace Accord and concerns over his association with former governor Dr. Olusegun Mimiko.

In early April, President Tinubu is set to meet with Ondo APC stakeholders to discuss the upcoming primary election, emphasizing the importance of the party’s flag bearer for the November governorship election.

Amidst the lobbying frenzy, aspirant Olugbenga Edema clarifies that neither the state nor national party leadership, including the President, has endorsed any candidate, urging fellow aspirants to refrain from dropping names prematurely.