Eyitayo Jegede, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the 2016 and 2020 governorship elections in Ondo State, called on members of the party to come together to help the party win the upcoming governorship election in the state.
Jegede, who was defeated by late Rotimi Akeredolu in the last two governorship elections, also urged the party leadership to conduct a primary without conflicts.
The PUNCH reports that the leadership of the PDP has set April 25 for the party's primary, with at least eight aspirants vying for the position.
Jegede addressed members and leaders of the PDP from the 18 local government areas of the state at his office in Akure, the state capital, and stated that it was time to rebuild the party.
He mentioned, “Today, we have a variety of governorship aspirants who are capable and distinguished in their respective fields. We also have those who have demonstrated exceptional qualities, including consistency and unwavering loyalty to the party.
“I believe it is time to give these individuals the opportunity to compete in the primary and, God willing, ultimately win the governorship election. All the aspirants will be given every available support at my disposal. The time to rebuild the party for victory is now.
“I am dedicated to making all necessary sacrifices to solve the party's problems rather than contributing to them.
“I understand that the success of our party is possible if we all work together, and therefore I ask you to join forces with the party leadership in your wards and in our various local government areas to ensure a conflict-free primary and a successful result in the upcoming governorship elections.”
Meanwhile, as the party's primary approaches, only one out of the eight aspirants, Bamidele Akingboye, has obtained the nomination form of the party.
When meeting with the state executive of the party at the party’s state secretariat in Akure after collecting the form in Abuja, Akingboye stated that he was not merely seeking political power for the sake of power, but as a servant leader committed to the advancement and empowerment of every citizen of the state.
“I do not pursue political power for the attraction of the office, self-centeredness, or financial gains for myself or family members but to create new opportunities, expand the state’s economic foundation, reduce the cost of governance, prioritize the welfare of the people, tackle widespread poverty and make the state secure, healthy, and safe for all law-abiding residents of the state,” he said.
