Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-political and cultural organisation, has thrown its weight behind the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the November 16 governorship election in Ondo State, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
Daily Trust reports that Governor Aiyedatiwa, would be facing Agboola Ajayi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and 15 others at the poll.
Sehinde Arogbofa, prominent leader of Afenifere, who spoke yesterday at the palace of Olubaka of Oka land, Oba Yusuf Adebori Adeleye, disclosed that the organisation was solidly behind Aiyedatiwa.
Arogbofa, who said Aiyedatiwa deserves to retain the seat also urged him to “Emulate the values, legacies and enviable path” of the first governor of the state, late Chief Adekunle Ajasin, when elected.
- Nigeria part of Africa-led research for HIV vaccine – NACA
- Debt trap to growth path: Africa’s call for relief
“The Afenifere stands firmly behind your mandate. You have shown promise and leadership. We are confident in your ability to lead Ondo State to greater heights.
“Follow the legacy of Chief Ajasin. Strive to make Ondo State great once again, as he once did,” Arogbofa said.
In his remarks, Oba Adeleye said traditional rulers in Akoko South West Local Government Area of the state have decided to support Aiyedatiwa for the election.
The monarch, who highlighted the various intervention projects and programmes that brought succour to the people under Aiyedatiwa’s administration said the governor has shown his government is masses-friendly.
“The Council of Obas has decided that Governor Aiyedatiwa is our candidate. On behalf of all traditional rulers here, we stand together in support of your election, assured by your commitment to our communities.
“Since 1999, we have been advocating for five per cent local government funds to traditional institutions in the state. Many promised, but it was Governor Aiyedatiwa who made it a reality. This step alone speaks volumes about your dedication to our welfare,” Oba Adeleye said.