Barring any last minute change, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State will today conduct the primary election to choose its gubernatorial candidate.
News About Nigeria reports that a total number of 171,922 party members enlisted from the 203 wards spanning the 18 local government areas, are eligible to vote.
The party announced that sixteen persons are competing to fly the party’s flag in the upcoming November 16 gubernatorial election.
Among the contenders are incumbent Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim representing Ondo South, legal luminary Olusola Oke, former President of the Nigerian Medical Association Prof. Francis Faduyile, Dr. Funmi Waheed-Adekojo, and APC National Vice Chairman (South-West) Isaacs Kekemeke, among others.
Governor Aiyedatiwa seems to have an advantage because of his current position and support from traditional leaders and many state lawmakers.
Early this month, a faction within the APC in Ondo State, known as the G30 group, threw its support behind Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s bid for re-election.
They praised his competency, leadership capacity, and progressive vision showcased in recent months.
Aiyedatiwa’s spokesperson, Ebenezer Adeniyan, on Friday said they are not feeling pressured and are confident about the primary.
He said, “We are not under any pressure. The primary is just 24 hours away. I am sure by then, everybody will know where they belong.”
But other candidates, like Senator Ibrahim and Adewale Akinterinwa, are also optimistic about their chances.
Senator Ibrahim reminded everyone that endorsements don’t guarantee victory, while Akinterinwa expressed confidence in his campaign’s grassroots support.
Meanwhile, speaking to reporters on Friday, Akinterinwa expressed his belief in securing victory in the upcoming poll.
He said the people of Ondo desire a candidate with knowledge, experience, and a track record in government.
Akinterinwa stressed that his campaign has focused on building genuine support within local communities rather than gathering large crowds from elsewhere.
Governor Aiyedatiwa concluded his campaign tour in three council areas of Akoko North West, Akoko North East, and Akoko South on Friday.
