The political landscape of Ondo State, often referred to as the Sunshine State, is set for an intriguing contest. The forthcoming governorship election, scheduled for November 16, 2024, presents a unique scenario where two former deputy governors will be vying for the state’s top position.
Agboola Ajayi, a notable figure in the state’s political arena, has secured the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)’s ticket for the election. Ajayi served as the deputy governor during the first tenure of the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu. His victory in the indirect primary, held at the International Culture and Events Centre in Akure on Thursday, saw him defeat six other aspirants. Ajayi’s triumph was decisive, with him polling 264 out of the total valid votes of 619.
On the other side of the political divide, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who recently secured the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket, is the incumbent and the man to beat. Aiyedatiwa, like Ajayi, has experience as a deputy governor of Ondo State, serving during late Rotimi Akeredolu’s second term. He assumed office last December following the death of his principal.
Ajayi’s journey to this point has been marked by several political shifts. After a fallout with Akeredolu in 2021, he left the APC and joined the Zenith Labour Party. He became the party’s governorship candidate in the 2020 election but was unsuccessful in his bid against Akeredolu.
The upcoming election promises to be a captivating political event. The fact that two former deputy governors are contesting for the governorship adds an extra layer of intrigue.
As the citizens of Ondo State prepare to cast their votes, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on these two experienced politicians and their visions for the future of the Sunshine State.
