An Akure indigenous pressure group in the Ondo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Akure Youth Progressive Elite Club ( AYPEC), has thrown its weight behind the choice of a renowned socio-political activist, Dr. Marindoti Oludare, as running mate to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, in the November 16 governorship election.
Rising from its meeting in Akure, the state capital, the group anchored its preference on the grounds that Marindoti, who hails from Ondo North Senatorial District, is a major contributor to successes recorded by APC at the national and state levels.
The group noted that apart from this, there is a common understanding that Akure will emerge as the successor to the winner of the November 16 governorship election in 2029.
In a communique issued after the meeting and signed by its President, Hon. Ilesanmi Temitope; and, Secretary, Mr Omosebi Ayodeji, the group formally announced its “unyielding support for the candidacy of Charles Oludare Marindoti as the running mate to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa in the November 16 gubernatorial election.
“As a group dedicated to the progressive future of Akure, our priority remains to elevate an indigene of Akure to the esteemed position of Governor of Ondo State.
“After thoughtful consideration and extensive deliberations, we have concluded that selecting an Akure indigene as Deputy Governor in this election cycle may incite future internal conflict, so this could potentially jeopardise Akure’s chances of securing the coveted gubernatorial seat in subsequent elections.
“To prevent such outcomes and to fortify our strategic position, we advocate for a choice that unites strength from diverse quarters of our state without compromising Akure’s aspirations,” it argued.
Continuing, the group stated, “It as such stressed that there was no candidate more suited from the Northern Senatorial District than Charles Oludare Marindoti.
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“Born and raised in Akure, yet hailing from Oka Akoko, Marindoti represents a bridge between the North and Central districts, enhancing Governor Aiyedatiwa’s appeal and consolidating statewide support.
“Charles Oludare Marindoti is not only intellectually adept but also a seasoned campaigner whose track record speaks volumes of his capability to support the Governor effectively.
“His roots in Akure, combined with his broad appeal, make him an invaluable asset not just in this election but as a future leader who will continue to champion the interests of the Akure community.
“We are confident that Marindoti’s potential elevation will bring substantial benefits to our community and ensure that Akure remains a focal point of development and representation in Ondo State governance.
“The AYPE, therefore, urged all members and other supporters of the APC and other indigenes of Ondo State to unite behind “this vision, promoting a campaign that respects our heritage and looks to the future with promise and potential”.
The group, however, recalled contributions made toward the campaigns of President Bola Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election and his spirited moves in the triumph of Aiyedatiwa, over forces plotting to impeach him as deputy governor last year.
“We particularly note with nostalgic feelings that Marindoti, as a medic in the United States, heard then presidential aspirant, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, express frustration with people maligning him on the social media, on platforms that did not provide him with a right of reply.
“He got moved and took leave of absence from his workplace in the US, relocated to Nigeria to undertake intensive media campaigns for Tinubu, at no cost to anyone,” it recalled.
