In a decisive move, Mr. Agboola Ajayi clinched the governorship candidacy for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State, positioning himself as a formidable contender for the November 16 gubernatorial election. Ajayi, once the deputy governor to the late Rotimi Akeredolu, emerged victorious over six other aspirants at the primary held in Akure.
Ajayi’s journey to this pivotal moment has been marked by political maneuvering and ambition. His departure from the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2020, followed by stints with the PDP and Zenith Labour Party, reflects his unwavering determination to pursue his gubernatorial aspirations.
Now, having secured the PDP ticket, Ajayi is poised to face his former ally, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the immediate-past deputy governor and now governor, who won the APC primary last Saturday.
At the PDP primary, Ajayi’s victory resonated with 264 out of 621 delegates, firmly establishing his candidacy. His competitors, including Chief Olusola Ebiseni and Mr. Kolade Akinjo, faced a formidable challenge as Ajayi’s momentum swept through the contest.
Acknowledging his triumph, Ajayi lauded the election committee for upholding transparency throughout the primary. He extended an olive branch to his fellow contestants, emphasizing the collective effort needed to secure victory in the forthcoming election.
Reflecting on the significance of the primary, Ajayi’s sentiments echoed those of Mr. Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State and Chair of the PDP Primary Election Committee. Ewhrudjakpo underscored the party’s determination to wrest power from the ruling APC, emphasizing the importance of conducting a free, fair, and credible election.
With aspirations set high and the electorate eagerly watching, Ajayi’s emergence as the PDP candidate injects fresh energy into Ondo State’s political landscape. As the countdown to the election begins, the stage is set for a compelling showdown between Ajayi and his opponents, with the future leadership of the state hanging in the balance.
