The presidency is expected to back one of the numerous contenders for the Ondo APC 2024 gubernatorial primary election, scheduled for April 20th, 2024.
The competition will be intense yet clear-cut, offering opportunities but also posing challenges. Among the candidates is Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the current governor of Ondo State, who benefits from his incumbent status while also grappling with rumored educational certificate issues and confronting significant political hurdles and baggage.
President Tinubu and his political advisors are closely monitoring the political dynamics surrounding the APC gubernatorial ticket in Ondo State, considering its implications for the party’s presidential calculations in 2027.
However, both Tinubu and his team require a candidate free from political controversies to ensure the APC’s success in the November 2024 gubernatorial elections in Ondo.
Aiyedatiwa appears to lack the necessary political influence to unite all factions within the APC. For example, six federal lawmakers from Ondo State penned an open letter to President Tinubu, criticizing Aiyedatiwa for fostering party discord and disrespecting his late predecessor, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu.
This has further compounded Aiyedatiwa’s challenges. Moreover, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, the widow of the late Rotimi Akeredolu, former governor of Ondo, has rebuked Funke Akeredolu Aruna, his niece, for endorsing Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s gubernatorial candidacy.
Additionally,the controversy surrounding Aiyedatiwa’s educational certificate adds another layer of complexity. Given the current circumstances,there are doubts about Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s ability to secure victory for the APC in Ondo on November 16, 2024..
As the ruling party in the states and with significant interest from the presidency in Ondo State, the APC is confronted with a pivotal decision. It necessitates a careful assessment of the situation and exploration of alternatives to Aiyedatiwa, emphasizing the selection of a candidate capable of uniting the party and appealing to a wide range of voters.
This might entail thorough internal consultations, redressing grievances within the party, and opting for a candidate with a more robust track record and broader support base, while still being youthful and rooted in grassroots support.
Furthermore, emphasis should be placed on presenting candidates with a compelling governance vision and addressing the electorate’s concerns to bolster their prospects in the forthcoming election. Such leverage lies predominantly with young but grassroots rooted personalities.
The incumbency factor has been resolved. The APC spokesperson stressed that the party does not hand out positions as “freebies”; rather, they are meant to be contested. This highlights the party’s commitment to democratic principles and fair competition within its ranks.
However, in the end, the party must select a candidate who fits the current political landscape, as winning elections is paramount in politics. The spokesperson stated, “We are a democratic and progressive party; we don’t hand out positions. People must prove their suitability, qualifications, or criteria to our members, who participate in primaries.”
Indeed, the APC’s main goal should be to nominate a candidate capable of uniting the party and securing a convincing victory. This necessitates choosing someone with a fresh image, broad appeal, strong leadership skills, and a proven track record of success. Such a candidate should also be able to address the diverse interests and concerns of the electorate, maximizing the party’s chances of success and effectively representing the people’s interests.
Undoubtedly, securing the Ondo gubernatorial seat in the November 2024 governorship election holds significant importance for the APC’s strategic calculations leading up to 2027. As such, the presidency must endorse a candidate with a fresh image and the adeptness to navigate the political terrain with agility.
Despite various names circulating in public discourse, Aiyedatiwa often goes unnoticed. Political analysts emphasize the critical need for careful deliberation within the APC to field a candidate who possesses both widespread popularity and the ability to secure victory. While several potential candidates are being suggested, Honorable Omo Oba Okujimi stands out.
Despite his youth, he boasts considerable private sector experience and is currently excelling as a member of the House of Representatives, representing Irele/Okitipupa Federal Constituency and serving as Chairman of the House Committee on National Population.
Honorable Jimi is reputed for his controversy-free record and enjoys substantial support across the state, making him a viable contender capable of clinching victory smoothly. His potential success in the election could also significantly impact the APC’s and President Tinubu’s 2027 strategy in Ondo and the broader southwest region.
