By Adedotun Ajayi

Ahead of APC governorship primary in Ondo State, the State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa yesterday formally submitted his expression of interest and governorship nomination form at the party’s National secretariat in Abuja.

The party primary is slated to hold on April 20 in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

Recall that Aiyedatiwa publicly announced his candidacy on March 12 for the upcoming gubernatorial election scheduled for November in the State.

The governor was accompanied by his Deputy, Olayide Adelami, Speaker, Ondo State House of Assembly, Chief Olamide Oladiji, former Senator, Ajayi Boroffice, Deputy Speaker, Abayomi Akinruntan and other members of the Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, led by the Secretary to the State Government, Tayo Oluwatuyi and other party chieftains, including  Gbenga Elegbeleye, Ade Adeogun, Bola Ilori, Chief Gbenga Ale and Rear Admiral Samuel Alade (rtd), among others.

The Governor submitted the forms to the Deputy National Organising Secretary of the party, Mr. Chidi Duru Nze and the National Legal Adviser, Prof. A Kana, both of who commended the Governor for his humility and respect for the party by personally submitting his forms at the secretariat.

A throng of enthusiastic supporters of Governor Aiyedatiwa arrived at the APC National Secretariat, radiating confidence and determination.

As he made his way through the crowd, chants of solidarity filled the air, stressing the unwavering support he enjoys from well wishers and supporters.

Addressing the gathering, Aiyedatiwa attributed his desire to continue as governor to the resounding calls from various segments of society, citing achievements within his first three months in office and endorsements from over 100 support groups across the state.

He said, “My aspiration to continue serving as governor is not solely rooted in personal ambition but stems from the earnest appeals of the people of Ondo State. From the youths to the women, men, students, artisans, civil servants, traditional rulers, and various other segments of the society, there has been a resounding call for my continued leadership.

“Their endorsement is based on the tangible achievements made within the short span of three months, which have underscored the need for continuity.

“Furthermore, the overwhelming support from over a hundred support groups across Ondo State further reinforces the widespread desire for my continued governance.

“The initial step in the election process involves collecting the nomination form, which has been successfully completed. Following this, the submission phase, recently concluded, aligns with my commitment as a law-abiding citizen who respects the party’s rules and regulations.

“Recognizing the paramountcy of the party, I have diligently followed all necessary procedures to ensure compliance. Without the party, no candidacy can be pursued, and in adherence to its guidelines, I am here to fulfill the requisite steps to become the party’s flag-bearer in the upcoming election.”

Fielding questions from newsmen during a press briefing at the APC secretariat, Aiyedatiwa outlined his vision for the future, highlighting strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing various sectors of the state’s economy.

He pledged to prioritize salary payments, education, agriculture, and infrastructure development, emphasizing the importance of ensuring food security and improving access to markets for farmers.

 “During my initial three months in office as deputy governor, I operated within the confines of the governor’s authority, executing tasks as directed without independent discretion.

“Upon assuming the role of acting governor, we diligently followed through on existing initiatives while also setting our sights on surpassing previous achievements. I commend the late governor for his vision for Ondo State, and while we honour his legacy, we recognize the opportunity to set new benchmarks.

“Over the past three months as governor, my team and I have implemented innovative strategies to address key challenges facing the state. We have prioritized timely salary payments for all state employees, bolstered the education sector by recruiting additional teachers and covering all WAEC fees for secondary school students.

“We have made strides in gratuity payments and are committed to enhancing the agricultural sector to ensure food security for our people. Initiatives such as improving access roads to farms aim to facilitate the smooth transportation of agricultural products to markets, thereby stimulating economic growth and prosperity,” he added.

When asked about the other 15 aspirants in the APC, Aiyedatiwa expressed respect for all aspirants while asserting confidence in the overwhelming support he has garnered from the people of Ondo State.

“There’s nothing to fear,” he declared, stressing the trust and confidence placed in him by the populace.