Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Hakeem Gbadamosi
Published on 2024-03-03 19:16:15
The political landscape in Ondo state has been stirred up by the recent alliance between Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and former governor Olusegun Mimiko, causing a ripple effect within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) camp as they gear up for the November governorship election.
According to reports from Tribune Online, tensions have risen among aspirants vying for the APC ticket as they observe the close relationship between their party leader, Mimiko, and Aiyedatiwa, who holds a prominent position within the ruling party in the state. Aiyedatiwa’s loyalty to Mimiko, stemming from the former governor’s support during his impeachment proceedings, has led to the appointment of Mimiko’s loyalists by Aiyedatiwa, leaving APC members and supporters in a state of confusion.
It has been speculated that Aiyedatiwa and Mimiko have come to an understanding regarding the deputy governorship position, with the agreement to select a candidate from the central senatorial district if Aiyedatiwa secures the party ticket next month. This strategic move is seen as Mimiko’s long-term plan to install his preferred candidate as the future governor of the state, ensuring continuity of his influence within the government.
The fear among APC leaders is that if Aiyedatiwa wins the ticket and serves a single term of four years, it could disadvantage the Southern senatorial district. On the other hand, the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is concerned that a weaker candidate may emerge as their standard-bearer, paving the way for Aiyedatiwa’s victory in the upcoming governorship election.
Despite the concerns and speculations, a government source has downplayed the political significance of the relationship between Governor Aiyedatiwa and Mimiko, emphasizing their longstanding friendship. The source dismissed any notion of a political alliance between the two, stating that the opposition party’s apprehensions are unwarranted.
In response to the ongoing political dynamics, the Akoko Progressive Movement (APM) within the APC in Ondo State has expressed disapproval of the appointments made by Governor Aiyedatiwa, alleging that individuals who opposed the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu’s candidacy have been rewarded with government positions. The group criticized the governor for appointing critics of prominent party members, signaling a lack of support for key party figures within the Akoko region.
The APM called on national party leaders to intervene and address the growing tensions within the party to prevent further division and turmoil in the state’s political landscape. As preparations for the November governorship election intensify, the alliances and rifts within the political sphere in Ondo state are expected to shape the outcome of the upcoming electoral contest.
Read the original article on Nigerian Tribune
