By: Akeem Salami
As the November 16, 2024 Ondo state Gubernatorial election approaches, the Minister of Youth, Hon. Ayodele Wisdom Olawande, today led large number of youths in the Akure South Local Government Area, to hold a solidarity walk in support of the APC Candidate, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s election.
The event, which drew participants from all units and wards in the council area, showcased the youths’ support for the governor’s election.
The walk commenced at Ilesha Garage area, with youths singing solidarity songs, and making their way to the palace of the Akure King and finally to the Government House, Alagbaka, in Akure.
The Campaign Director General for Youths and Students for APC’s gubernatorial candidates in Akure South, Prince Dapo Adepoju, who addressed the crowd, commended them for their interest in the state’s affairs.
He praised the current administration’s contributions to development and expressed gratitude to the president for supporting the progress of Ondo State by elevating one of the significant sons of the city.
Adepoju explained that the rally also served as a welcome gesture for the Minister of Youth Development, Hon. Ayo Olawande, who was visiting the state.
“This turnout shows that Ondo youths stand with the governor and believe in his vision for continuity and while the gubernatorial race intensifying, these youth rallies underscore the support Governor Aiyedatiwa has garnered among young voters that has strengthened their hopes for continued progress in Ondo State,” Adepoju noted.
Also speaking, the Youth Minister, Hon. Ayodele Olawande, visibly moved by the massive turnout, expressed his pleasure in seeing the large gathering of Akure youths.
Olawande highlighted the importance of the event as a show of solidarity for Governor Aiyedatiwa, describing him as a “youthful governor” whose continued leadership resonates with young people.
The Minister assured the youths of the peaceful nature of the upcoming election, reiterating Ondo State’s reputation for peace and the APC’s commitment to a non-violent electoral process.
“We are a peace-loving state. This is democracy, and everyone will have the chance to vote without conflict,” he said.
The rally witnessed a visit to the palace of the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, the paramount ruler of the Akure Kingdom, who warmly welcomed the Minister for Youth Development.
The Deji lauded the conveners of the walk, expressing pride in the youth’s commitment to a peaceful election.
A prominent APC stakeholder, Barrister Bolutayo Babalayo also weighed in on the event, stating that the walk symbolized the youths’ satisfaction with Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership.
Addressing the youths, Governor Aiyedatiwa appreciated the Minister and other youth leaders for the massive rally.
