Aiyedatiwa to flag off statewide campaign, names Campaign Director General 

CITIZENS COMPASS– Ahead of the forthcoming gubernatorial election in Ondo State, Governor, Lucky Orimisan, Aiyedatiwa, will on Saturday, October 12, 2024, flag off his state-wide campaign.

He is the flag bearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the election.

Speaking at the third APC Stakeholders meeting held at The Dome, Akure, on Thursday, the Governor emphasised that the party’s strength lies in collective efforts and urged members to intensify grassroots mobilisation.

This came as the Governor inaugurated the APC State Campaign Council, with a member of the House of Representatives, representing Ondo East/Ondo West federal constituency, Abiola Makinde, as the Director General of the campaign.

Addressing the packed venue, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed his joy at the overwhelming turnout, noting that it was a testament to the commitment party members have towards the success of APC in the coming election.

Reflecting on past stakeholder engagements, the Governor reminded attendees that he had promised inclusiveness in his administration.

“This is the third stakeholders’ meeting, and it’s clear that we’ve upheld our promise of inclusivity as a party and as a government,” he said.

The Governor stressed that it is the party, not just him, that is heading into the election. He emphasized that the election victory would require the collective strength of every party member.

“We cannot afford to be complacent; this is the time to redouble our efforts and ensure we deliver victory for the party,” Governor Aiyedatiwa said.

He called on party faithful to return to their units, wards amd local government areas and mobilize voters, particularly those who may feel marginalised.

Governor Aiyedatiwa also used the occasion to announce that the official flag-off of the APC gubernatorial campaign will take place on Saturday at the Ondo City Hall in the Central Senatorial District.

In his acceptance speech, Makinde assured the gathering that he is fully committed to delivering victory for the APC in the election.

“I promise that Ondo State will remain in the hands of APC,” he said confidently, pledging to lead a successful campaign that would consolidate the party’s hold on the state.

Earlier in his welcome address, the State APC Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, reinforced the governor’s message, reminding party members that APC remains one big family despite differing opinions.

He urged members to prioritize the party’s success above personal interests. “Ondo is a progressive state, and we will continue to be progressive as long as we stand united,” Adetimehin said, encouraging all to stay focused on the party’s goals.

In his vote of thanks, Deji Oyedele, an APC leader representing the South Senatorial District, appreciated Governor Aiyedatiwa for taking time out of his busy schedule to attend the meeting.

In the same vein, the Governor has dismissed from office the Special Assistant on Forestry (Central Senatorial District), Mr. Adeboye Taofiq Ewenla, with immediate effect.

This followed allegations of bribery and intimidation levelled against Mr. Ewenla by some timber merchants in the State.

Governor Aiyedatiwa also ordered a probe into the activities of those saddled with the responsibility of managing forest reserves in the State.

A replacement for Mr. Ewenla will be announced in due course.

The Governor urged all political appointees to conduct themselves in line with the provisions of the law and rules guiding their duties.