By Adedotun Ajayi
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has disclosed that the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, in the State remains a united and indivisible family, regardless of individual ambitions and differences.
Aiyedatiwa made this statement during the party stakeholders meeting on Saturday, held at the International Culture and Events Centre (The Dome), in Akure, the state capital.
The governor stressed the need for unity within the party, noting that a cohesive and united front is essential for achieving their common goals and ensuring the party’s success in the November 16 gubernatorial election.
He emphasised his administration’s commitment to inclusiveness, ensuring that all party members are involved in every decision.
Aiyedatiwa described the recently conducted primary election of the party as a family affair, saying now that it is over the party stands united once again.
He equally urged every member to support one another in unity, reaffirming their collective belonging to the APC.
“While we may have disagreements at times, it does not mean we are not part of the same party. Let us work together for our victory on November 16. Our party members need continuous encouragement, not just during election periods. Everything I have promised will come to fruition; they are not just mere words. In this administration, it is action over words.
“Lastly, considering our current position, it appears we have already won the battle due to our hard work. We encourage our party leaders to return to their respective local governments, put in even more effort, and unite everyone”, he added.
Earlier, APC State Chairman, Ade Adetimehin, in his welcome address, emphasised that every political party has its own constitution and rules that all members must follow.
He noted that while the primary election has been concluded, it is crucial for party members to unite as one family in preparation for the real election on November 16.
“The primary was merely an in-house affair, now is the time for unity. Together we are strong; divided we are weak. We must pool our strength. One person cannot achieve this alone, which is why unity is essential. We need to be sincere with one another, as that is the essence of politics,” he stated.
Adetimehin assured the leaders from the state’s 18 local government areas that Ondo State belongs to the APC. “If we unite and win, it will be our collective heritage,” he concluded.
Additionally, Mr. Morayo Lebi, one of the APC gubernatorial aspirants in the April 20 primary, remarked that the stakeholders meeting is a welcome development and a positive step forward.
He commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for his efforts to unify all party members, stressing that unity is crucial at this time.
Lebi appealed to all aggrieved party members to come together and support Governor Aiyedatiwa.
During the interactive session, former Commissioner for Women Affairs, Adebunmi Osadahun, urged the governor to include more women in his administration, adding that without women’s support, there would be no votes. She assured the governor that the women of Ondo State are firmly behind him.
In attendance were the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, former Chief of Staff, Chief Olugbenga Ale, members of the Ondo State House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Chief Olamide Oladiji, Senator representing Ondo North, Senator Jide Ipinsagba, members of the State Executive Council, former Minister of State for Transportation, Prince Ademola Adegoroye, Victor Olabimtan, Amb. Sola Iji, former Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Alhaji Abdulazeez Oluboyo, among several other party leaders