Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has attributed the recent wave of defections by governors from opposition parties to the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the impact of President Bola Tinubu’s ongoing reforms.
The governor made this known during a statewide tour of local government areas, where he set out to thank grassroots supporters and rally backing for President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general election. The tour began in the four Akoko local government areas, Akoko North-West, North-East, South-East and South-West.
Speaking to residents, Aiyedatiwa expressed gratitude for the support his administration has received and used the opportunity to dispel claims that politicians only visit communities during election periods.
“I am here simply to greet you and say thank you. Some people say politicians disappear after elections, but I have no election now. I came only to appreciate you for standing with this government,” he said.
At the Akoko North-West Local Government Secretariat, the governor commissioned five utility vehicles for traditional rulers and a bus for the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), describing them as part of efforts to strengthen local governance.
According to Aiyedatiwa, the APC’s growing influence across the country is closely linked to President Tinubu’s reforms, which he said have begun to deliver visible infrastructure and economic benefits. He cited the ongoing dualisation of the Ikare–Akungba road as evidence of development in the Akoko axis and a sign of new economic opportunities opening up in Ondo State.
The governor also disclosed that his main rival in the 2024 governorship election, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Hon. Agboola Ajayi, had recently met with him and agreed to join the APC, with an official announcement to be made later.
Calling for unity within the ruling party, Aiyedatiwa urged APC members to set aside internal differences and work together ahead of the 2027 elections.
“There will be no fighting in this party. All issues will be resolved through dialogue, and everyone will be carried along,” he assured party faithful.
During stops in Oka Akoko, Isua and other communities, the governor and his deputy, Dr Olayide Adelami, thanked residents and party members for their warm reception and continued support. Palliatives were also distributed across the local government areas visited as part of the appreciation tour.
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