By Our Reporter
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has urged voters in Ondo South Senatorial District to turn out en masse and elect the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Dayo Faduyile, in Saturday’s bye-election, describing him as the most qualified aspirant to represent the district in the Senate.
Speaking at the APC grand finale campaign rally in Okitipupa on Thursday, Governor 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 bye-election 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.
The governor said Prof. Faduyile possesses the requisite experience, intellect and leadership qualities needed to effectively articulate the interests of Ondo South at the National Assembly.
According to him, 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.
“We have had quality representation in the Senate, and Ondo South cannot afford to lower the bar. Prof. Faduyile has the capacity and pedigree to continue that legacy,” he said.
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.
Earlier, the Ondo State APC Chairman, Hon. Babatunde Kolawole, called on party members and stakeholders to intensify grassroots mobilisation ahead of the poll, assuring them of the commitment of the State Working Committee to securing victory for the party.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Campaign Committee, Pastor Femi Agagu, described Prof. Faduyile as a candidate whose credentials, acceptability and track record make him an attractive choice for voters across the district.
On behalf of APC leaders in Ondo South, Chief Olusola Oke and Hon. 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.
Speaking with newsmen, the APC candidate, Prof. Faduyile appreciated the overwhelming support and warm reception from the people of the district, pledging to pursue a people-centred legislative agenda that prioritises the needs and aspirations of his constituents.
He assured that, if elected, he would champion quality representation, attract meaningful developmental projects, promote policies that improve livelihoods, and maintain close engagement with the people to ensure that their voices are effectively represented in the National Assembly.
Faduyile also promised to justify the confidence reposed in him through responsive, accountable, and impactful leadership.
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.
