The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the upcoming Ondo State governorship election, Hon. Agboola Ajayi, has pledged to safeguard the coastal community of Ayetoro from imminent extinction if elected as governor.
Ajayi made this commitment during his campaign tour to Ese Odo local government area, where he vowed to tackle the pressing issue of sea incursion that threatens the livelihoods of residents in Ayetoro.
He lamented the longstanding neglect of the area and promised his administration would prioritise the reclamation of the community, which is facing significant existential challenges.
In a show of support, the traditional ruler of Ajapa Kingdom, Oba Godwin Aboyewa, urged Ajayi to intervene in the reclamation efforts for Ayetoro, highlighting the risks to Ajapa if the coastal community were to face total extinction.
He stressed that the repercussions would not only affect Ayetoro but could also encroach upon Ajapa’s own existence.
The monarch further appealed to the PDP candidate to address the dire lack of infrastructure in the area, emphasising the critical need for potable water and access to quality, affordable education for the residents.
He prayed for Ajayi’s success in the upcoming election and reminded him of the importance of giving back to the community upon his potential ascension to the governorship.
Responding to the king’s concerns, Ajayi assured him that his administration would act decisively to prevent Ayetoro’s extinction, stating, “I appreciate the brotherly love you have shown today in your desire to save the Ayetoro Community from total extinction. You have displayed a commendable level of patriotism.”
Ajayi expressed his determination, saying, “If we take office by next February, we will work to push the sea back from Ayetoro by at least two kilometres. This will not be accomplished by magic; it is a commitment we are ready to fulfil.”
During his tour, Ajayi also visited other communities in the local government, including Bolowo and Arogbo, where he promised to address the immediate needs of the residents.
Oba Sunday Amuseghan, the traditional ruler of Apoi land, led other monarchs in offering prayers for Ajayi’s electoral success.
He declared, “Ese Odo is for Agboola Ajayi; there is no two ways about it. We are here to pray for him, and I am confident our people will give him their full support in the upcoming election. Anyone suggesting otherwise is deceiving themselves; our block vote is for Agbo and Fessy here.”