Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has said that the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state should remain a united and indivisible family, regardless of individual ambitions and differences if it must win the November 16 governorship election.
Speaking during the party’s stakeholders meeting at the weekend, Aiyedatiwa stressed the need for unity within the party, saying a cohesive and united front is essential for achieving common goals and ensuring the party’s success in the November 16 gubernatorial election.
This came as the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, published the details of Governor Aiyedatiwa as the candidate of the APC for the November governorship election.
The electoral body on Saturday pasted the details of all the candidates participating in the governorship election at its head office in Akure.
Addressing the party leaders, the Governor emphasized his administration’s commitment to inclusiveness, ensuring that all party leaders and members are involved in every decision.
Describing the primary election as a family affair, he urged every member to support one another in unity, reaffirming their collective responsibility in working towards victory for the APC.
His words “While we may have disagreements at times, it does not mean we are not part of the same party. Let us work together for our victory on November 16. Our party members need continuous encouragement, not just during election periods. Everything I have promised will come to fruition; they are not just mere words. In this administration, it is action over words.
“Considering our current position, it appears we have already won the battle due to our hard work but there is no room for complacency. I encourage our party leaders to return to their respective local governments, put in even more effort, and unite everyone.
“While the major issue of electing the party flag bearer has been settled, ongoing consultations are vital. None of us have abandoned our commitment to the party’s unity. To those who previously held differing opinions, I urge you to reunite with the party family.
“Let’s spread the message that our party stands as one. The primaries are concluded; now, it’s time to fortify our party at every level. Our constituents need encouragement beyond election cycles.
“The Chairman of our esteemed party, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, has no other job than to produce governors for the state at every general election.
“The current atmosphere resembles post-election anticipation. Let’s return to our local constituencies and engage leaders across all factions. You have to compile a list of ten individuals who have contributed to our party’s success and submit it for review. The government will verify compliance before making an official announcement.”
The chairman of APC, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, in his welcome address, emphasized that every political party has its constitution and rules that all members must follow.
He noted that while the primary election has been concluded, party members must unite as one family in preparation for the real election on November 16.
According to him: “The primary was merely an in-house affair, now is the time for unity. Together we are strong; divided we are weak. We must pool our strength. One person cannot achieve this alone, which is why unity is essential. We need to be sincere with one another, as that is the essence of politics,” he stated.
Former Commissioner for Women Affairs, Adebunmi Osadahun, urged the governor to include more women in his administration, assuring him that the women of Ondo State are firmly behind him.
Mr. Morayo Lebi, one of the APC gubernatorial aspirants in the April 20 primary election, remarked that the stakeholders meeting is a welcome development and a positive step forward.
He commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for his efforts to unify all party members and appealed to all aggrieved party members to come together and support the Governor.