By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi
Ahead of Saturday’s governorship election in Ondo State, the All Progressives Congress (APC) held a grand rally in Akure, drawing key leaders including Vice President Kashim Shettima, governors, ministers, senators, and other prominent figures.
The event, held at Democracy Park on Wednesday, saw an energised APC pushing for a decisive victory in the upcoming election.
Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Shettima underscored the administration’s commitment to Ondo’s growth and urged voters to back Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for continuity and progress.
He highlighted recent federal initiatives in the state, including the appointment of two senior ministers from Ondo and approval for a teaching hospital at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA).
“This is because of the love Mr. President has for Ondo State,” Shettima affirmed, praising residents for their longstanding support of the APC.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, receiving the APC flag from National Chairman Alhaji Abdullahi Ganduje, spoke of his journey and pledged to honor his late predecessor’s vision for Ondo.
“I am here to fulfill that vision,” he said, promising to build on the administration’s achievements and address the state’s needs.
“With your support, we will achieve even greater things together,” he told the crowd, urging a vote for the APC to foster economic growth, food security, improved infrastructure, and enhanced state security.
Other top APC figures rallied the audience.
Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo voiced the party’s determination to secure victory across all 18 local government areas, predicting an 18-0 sweep for APC.
Lagos State Governor and APC National Campaign Council Chairman Babajide Sanwo-Olu encouraged supporters to maintain peace on election day, emphasising the importance of unity in securing a strong win.
APC National Chairman Ganduje also assured Aiyedatiwa of full party backing, stating, “This election is about political unity and strength,” as he presented the APC flags to Aiyedatiwa and his running mate, Dr. Olayide Adelami.
In a show of unity, other APC leaders in attendance included Ekiti Governor Abiodun Oyebanji, Ogun Governor Dapo Abiodun, Imo Governor Hope Uzodima, Kwara Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Minister of Youth Development Ayo Olawande, Minister of Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola, Secretary of the National Campaign Council Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, former Edo Governor Adams Oshiomhole, and former Edo Deputy Governor Philip Shuaibu.
Senator Jimoh Ibrahim and other APC governorship aspirants were also present to back Aiyedatiwa, joined by National Assembly members and all APC members of the Ondo House of Assembly, led by Speaker Rt Hon Olamide Oladiji.
The rally highlighted a unified APC front heading into Saturday’s election.
