There’s no room for coalition in Ondo State – Gov Aiyedatiwa

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Monday, welcomed Hon. Dayo Awude, the Labour Party's deputy governorship candidate in the last election, along with his supporters, to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He congratulated the defectors under the platform of the Sunshine Grassroots Network from various political parties, including PDP, SDP and ADC, describing their coming to APC as a wise decision. "APC has enough room for all of you. Your coming to APC is an evidence that all the remaining votes APC didn't get in the last Governorship election will be for President Tinubu in 2027 presidential election".

The Governor stressed that there is no room for coalition in Ondo State, adding that whole of Ondo State is for President Tinubu come 2027, noting that APC has all it takes to retain power.

The State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Engr. Ade Adetimehin, noted that the majority of the decampees were once members of the party before joining other political platforms. He stressed that the APC remains a home for all, firmly rooted in principles of quality leadership and inclusive politics, and does not discriminate against anyone seeking to return.

"Let us come with open hands. In our party, we recognise quality, and such qualities are acknowledged and rewarded with due compensation."

He urged them to return to their local governments, assuring that they would be welcomed back into their wards and communities, and encouraged them to remain humble.

Earlier, Hon. Dayo Awude cited his alignment with the progressive ideals and developmental agenda of the current administration.

He said, "I have joined the APC to add value, and I assure Mr. Governor that he will see it. I urge all our party faithful to return to their units and wards to fully integrate themselves. I am here for progress to support President Bola Tinubu and to support the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa."

Awude commended the leadership style of Governor Aiyedatiwa, noting that it informed his decision to join forces with the administration. He pledged to work for the unity and success of the APC in Ondo State.

Mr Olu Egbodofo, one of the defectors noted that they cannot work against President Tinubu in the coming presidential election, hence, their reason for joining APC. "We cannot join others to throw stones to our own house", he said.

Mr Dele Ogunbameru from SDP stated that he had gone through a lot of things in his former party, and now, they are home. "We will work and contribute our own part to the progress of the APC".

Also speaking, Mr Folagbade Gbemigade expressed his happiness in joing APC, appreciating the leaders of the party for welcoming them warmly. He noted that his coming is an opportunity to work.

The event held at Akure town hall had In attendance; The Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, member of the House of Representatives, representing the Akure North/Akure South, Hon. Derin Adesida, Akure South Local Govnernment Chairman, Hon. Gbenga Fasua, Members of the State Executive Council, APC leaders, among others.