As the primary election of the All Progressives Congress in Ondo State approaches, one of the leading candidates and former Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Wale Akinterinwa, is confident that he will secure the party's ticket at the upcoming primary.
Akinterinwa, who officially declared his candidacy at the APC state secretariat in Akure on Tuesday, stated that the state has the potential to become an economic hub similar to Lagos, and he aims to achieve this if elected.
He emphasized that the state's extensive coastline, deep sea port, and large land mass position it to provide for the entire South-West region.
Drawing on his experience, Akinterinwa pledged that his administration would devise strategies to create job opportunities for unemployed youths and get them off the streets.
He stressed the need to find innovative solutions for offering quality employment to young people and think boldly and without constraints.
He conveyed his vision of leveraging the state's resources to establish Ondo as the next Lagos State, highlighting its coastline and deep seaport.
Acknowledging the efforts of previous governments, Akinterinwa underscored the need to elevate Ondo State to an industrialized level.
He emphasized the agricultural potential of the state, pointing out the opportunities presented by its extensive land mass compared to Lagos, and expressed his intention to utilize these advantages to ensure food security for the South-West region.
Akinterinwa outlined plans to provide support for farmers, attract investors to the state, and make land accessible for development purposes.
He declared his aspiration to become the state's Chief Marketing Officer and promote Ondo to the world, envisioning a prosperous new era for the state in his leadership.
In his comments, the state's APC chairman, Mr. Ade Adetimehin, lamented the high unemployment rate in the state and emphasized the need for urgent action to address the issue.
He urged the party's aspirants to allow the party to oversee appointments when they assume the governorship, as this would benefit grassroots party members.
He stressed the importance of allowing the local party to handle appointments, asserting that this would benefit the people. He highlighted the tendency for politicians to distance themselves from the party once they attain power.
He called for the avoidance of thuggery in the state and praised Akinterinwa's experience and dedication within the party, discouraging any association with violence.
The APC has scheduled its primary for April 20, and several aspirants have already obtained the party's nomination forms in preparation for the primary.
Other top aspirants of the party who will vie for the APC ticket ahead of the 2024 governorship election include Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Chief Olusola Oke, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, Dr. Francis Faduyile, and Mr. Gbenga Edema.
The APC's National Working Committee has formed a nine-person committee to supervise the primary election.
The committee is led by Mr. Emma Eneukwu.
