By Friday Omosola
Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on the people of Ondo State to re-elect Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and his deputy, Olayide Adelami, in the upcoming governorship election.
Addressing a large gathering at the MKO Abiola Democracy Park, Akure, on Wednesday, Shettima assured voters that the duo would deliver hope, prosperity, and unity, ensuring continued progress in the Sunshine State.
Shettima urged the electorate to let their votes send a strong message of unity and strength, emphasising the importance of the election as a choice between progress and stagnation.
“Governor Aiyedatiwa is not just campaigning to retain his position but to bring hope and prosperity to every corner of Ondo State. This election is a chance to stand with a party that delivers and a leader who understands the heartbeat of the people,” Shettima stated.
He encouraged voters to remember the APC’s achievements and to secure the state’s future by re-electing Aiyedatiwa. Extending President Bola Tinubu’s support, Shettima conveyed the President’s confidence in Aiyedatiwa’s leadership.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu fully endorses the Aiyedatiwa-Adelami ticket as torchbearers of prosperity for Ondo. Though he is engaged at a summit in Saudi Arabia, he stands firmly with the people of Ondo in spirit,” he added.
Shettima also urged voters to ignore distractions, focusing instead on the APC’s integrity and stability, and the practical solutions it offers for the state’s development.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, addressing supporters, urged them to vote massively for the APC, honouring the legacy of late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, who had expressed confidence in his leadership.
Mr Aiyedatiwa observed a minute of silence for the late governor and highlighted ongoing developments in the state, promising to deliver even more in his second term.
Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, APC’s National Chairman, expressed confidence in Aiyedatiwa’s victory. “By the grace of God, come Saturday, Governor Aiyedatiwa will win. A vote for him is a vote for unity, peace, and development,” Ganduje stated.
He later invited Shettima to officially hand over the party’s flag to the governor.
Earlier, Shettima visited the Deji of Akure, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ogunlade Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, commending his efforts in preserving Akure’s rich cultural heritage.
The Vice President praised Akure as a symbol of heritage and unity, noting the historical significance of the 850-year-old palace.
In response, the traditional ruler thanked President Tinubu for approving a teaching hospital for Akure and commended Aiyedatiwa’s support for traditional institutions, urging the people to vote overwhelmingly for the APC.
As Ondo heads to the polls, the APC rally showcased a united front, rallying supporters to sustain progress and prosperity under the party’s leadership.