Just before the party primary, the Asiwaju Mandate Group, a faction of the All Progressives Congress in Ondo State, appealed to the governorship aspirants. They emphasized the importance of showing good sportsmanship during and after the primary elections on Saturday. The group, claiming neutrality towards all candidates, urged them to unify post-primary to ensure party cohesion and boost chances in the upcoming November 16 gubernatorial election.
The APC is set to hold its governorship primary on Saturday, April 20, with all 16 aspirants having been cleared by the party’s screening committee. Among the aspirants are Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Mr. Wale Akinterinwa, Mr. Mayowa Akinfolarin, Prof. Francis Faduyile, Mr. Isaacs Kekemeke, Chief Olusola Oke, SAN, Mr. Gbenga Edema, and Senator Jimoh Ibrahim.
Others include Mr. Jimi Odimayo, Brig. Gen. Olamide Ohunyeye (retd), Mr. Diran Iyantan, Engnr. Ife Oyedele, Mr. Soji Ehinlawo, Mrs. Funmilayo Waheed-Adekojo, Mr. Morayo Lebi, and Mrs. Funke Omogoroye.
In a statement released on Tuesday by Evang. Olumuyiwa Asagunla, the Director-General of the AMG, all card-carrying APC members eligible to vote in the primary were urged to prioritize the party’s interests and success over personal gains. Asagunla emphasized that choosing the best candidate in the primary is crucial for the party’s success in the gubernatorial election.
Asagunla stated, “We believe in the sanctity of the party’s supremacy and the spirit of fairness and equity, and the group will not be endorsing any of the aspirants for the primary election.”
He continued, “Members of AMG participating in the primary should consider capacity and acceptability when casting their votes. A strong candidate choice will ensure victory for the party in the general election. All aspirants should remember that the party is bigger than any individual and approach the primary as united members of a family.”
The group declared its neutrality in selecting a candidate for the primary election, expressing confidence in all aspirants’ capabilities to lead the state effectively, citing their experience in governance and administration.