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Ondo Governorship Election: APC’s Guber Aspirant, Joins NNPP and Secures Ticket

Published by Tope Fakinlede on June 5th, 2024.

Ondo Governorship Election: APC’s Guber Aspirant, Joins NNPP and Secures Ticket

Ahead of the upcoming governorship election in Ondo, Hon. Gbenga Edema, a notable aspirant from the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary, has switched allegiance to the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). Edema was named the NNPP’s candidate for the November election following the withdrawal of Oluwatosin Ayeni, the party’s former candidate. This decision was finalized during a special meeting of the party’s leadership in Akure, the state capital.

In his acceptance speech, Edema urged Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to prepare for departure from the Alagbaka Government House, asserting that the governor’s re-election is improbable. Edema emphasized his move to the NNPP was driven by the party’s commitment to internal democracy, which he found lacking in the APC.

Edema critiqued the APC’s primary election process, held on April 20, 2024, describing it as flawed and undemocratic. He argued that the election did not meet the standards of transparency and adherence to constitutional guidelines, as set by the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Electoral Act of 2002.

He condemned the APC’s actions, predicting the party’s downfall similar to that of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), from which the APC had previously taken power. Announcing his resignation from the APC, Edema declared his new affiliation with the NNPP, which he praised as a progressive and people-focused party.

Edema issued a formal notice to Governor Aiyedatiwa and the ruling APC, stating that the NNPP plans to take over the Government House from February 24, 2025. He expressed confidence in the NNPP’s ability to deliver a more inclusive and effective government for Ondo State, as outlined in their manifesto.

In his concluding remarks, Edema pledged to faithfully carry out his duties as the NNPP candidate for the November 16, 2024, gubernatorial election, vowing not to look back. He highlighted the alignment of his vision with the NNPP’s manifesto, which aims to advance Ondo State’s development.

Meanwhile, Ayeni’s withdrawal from the race was confirmed by NNPP’s State Chairman, Peter Olagookun. Ayeni stated that his decision was made in the party’s best interest, to allow for a stronger candidacy, which he believes will bolster the NNPP’s chances of success in the forthcoming election.