The Ondo South Youth Forum (OSYF) has called on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to abandon his re-election bid in the 2024 gubernatorial election. The group argues that Aiyedatiwa’s ambition threatens to undermine the political interests of Ondo South Senatorial District.
According to the OSYF, with the Supreme Court ruling following the death of former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, Aiyedatiwa is only eligible for one more term in office. The group’s coordinator, Barrister Kingsley Omogbehin, urged the All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Tinubu to consider candidates from Ondo South who can legally serve eight years.
Ondo South Demands Candidate Eligible for Full Term
Omogbehin emphasized Ondo South’s desire for a governor who can serve a full eight-year term. He urged Aiyedatiwa to “step aside” and endorse a qualified candidate from the southern district. Omogbehin listed several potential candidates, including Dr. Paul Akintelure, Chief Olusola Oke, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, and others.
The OSYF expressed concern over Aiyedatiwa’s growing popularity in Ondo Central, while support from Ondo South appears to be waning. Omogbehin suggested that Aiyedatiwa’s short tenure might benefit Ondo Central in the long run, potentially explaining the backing he receives from some in that region.
Appeal for Unity and Strategic Political Focus
Omogbehin highlighted Ondo South’s prior support for candidates from other districts. In 2020, the group backed Governor Akeredolu (Ondo North) despite having their own candidate in the race. This, they argue, demonstrates their commitment to political balance within the state.
The OSYF claims that outside of Aiyedatiwa’s appointees, there is minimal backing for his re-election campaign from prominent figures in Ondo South. They predict that Aiyedatiwa would struggle to secure even 20% of the vote from the southern district in the upcoming election.
“If an election is held today, Aiyedatiwa will not receive 20% of the votes from Ondo south.
“Even the people of Ilaje, where he is from, will not vote for him because they understand the dangers that his ambition will pose to us in the future.
Omogbehin asked “Governor Aiyedatiwa must abandon his excessive ambition and sacrifice it for the sake of our people, who want a candidate who is legally eligible to serve eight years in office.
The group concluded with a plea to Governor Aiyedatiwa. Omogbehin urged him to prioritize the interests of Ondo South by relinquishing his ambition and supporting a candidate eligible for a full term. This move, they argue, would ensure a more equitable distribution of political power within the state.
Source: Vanguard
