The internal discord within the All Progressives Congress (APC) following its primary elections raises concerns about its ability to present a united front has been of concern to major stakeholders in the party.
There had been several issues after the primary, varying from an aspirant going to court, some discrediting (the primary) on various social media platforms, but the good news is that seven of the aspirants had reconciled with the party’s candidate, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and work for his emergence come Nov. 16 election.
However, this current turmoil if not well managed presents an opportunity for the PDP to capitalize on by emphasizing the need for proven election winners and individuals with widespread public trust.
The recent developments within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State are shaping the upcoming elections in significant ways. The harmonization and strengthening of the party, as evidenced by the latest meeting attended by notable figures such as Gov. Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and former Gov. Olusegun Mimiko of our dear state, among others, rooting for Agboola Ajayi as the candidate, underscore the importance of selecting a deputy with substantial political influence and electoral support, especially in the central region, which is poised to be a pivotal battleground, with the two candidates coming from the same region.
Furthermore, the financial prowess of key PDP figures like Gov Adeleke and Gov Makinde, coupled with Jegede’s ties to Atiku, potentially augmenting financial resources, adds another layer of complexity to an already competitive electoral landscape.
Additionally, the marginalization of Ondo-West within the current political framework merits attention. Despite being the second-largest local government in the state, it lacks significant representation in key positions. With notable figures such as Hon (Dr) Abiola Makinde PhD, and Dr Jibayo Adeyeye, all hailing from Ondo-West, possess impressive credentials and grassroots support, yet their community remains underrepresented.
As the election approaches, these factors underscore the intricate dynamics at play in Ondo State’s political arena, shaping the trajectory of the forthcoming electoral contest. It must also be noted that Agboola Ajayi comes from the Southern region of the state, same as the governor, APC must work more in the South and have a strong Deputy from the Central district.
In all of these, Ondo-West should be considered for the post of number two seat in the land with Akure having a sitting Minister, Senator and SSG as well as other juicy portfolios.
Also, Idanre has the current party chairman, Ondo-East has the Speaker. Ondo- West as the second largest local government in the Sunshine State has no stake in the current political setting and it can’t be said that Ondo-West doesn’t have qualified candidates.
With Hon. (Dr) Abiola Makinde PhD, the most performing Rep member in Ondo State by a mile, a grassroots politician with a proven track record who has delivered huge numbers for the party in elections. Then also, there is Dr Jibayo Adeyeye, a former two-term majority leader in the Lagos House of Assembly. IT will not be out of place to ask the party leadership to cede the Deputy Governor’s slot to Ondo-West.
Dr Balogun Akinyemi writes from Akure
