Ondo APC aspirants jostle for Tinubu’s support
Top All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirants in Ondo State are jostling for the endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The President’s neutrality has unsettled those bidding for the ruling party’s ticket ahead of the April 20 primary.
It was learnt that the President is likely to meet with stakeholders after the Eid celebration in a move to facilitate a rancor-free primary.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has been defending himself over accusation of inappropriate certificate.
Former Finance Commissioner Wale Akinterinwa has been pushing on with his position, claiming to be the most experienced, having served as the coordinator of the state resources.
Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, an industrialist, who once contested for the governorship position, is claiming to be the most qualified with his academic and business background.
A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Chief Olusola Oke, who also previously contested for governor, is seen by many stakeholders as another top runner.
All of them are from the South senatorial district.
Oke, who was a member of the president’s legal team up to the Supreme Court, is perceived as independent minded, enjoys widespread grassroots support across party lines, particularly in the core area of the Southern senatorial zone.
Oke, when he previously contested, won overwhelming in Okitipupa and Ilaje.
He is also believed to have the political capital to unsettle the PDP and dismantle the opposition parties in the state.
The meeting between the President and the could not be independently confirmed last night. But, the President is desirous of a smooth process to produce a popular candidate.
