A leading governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Ondo State, Hon. Jimi Odimayo, has called on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to shelve his governorship ambition, saying it will deprive the southern senatorial district of two terms in government.
Odimayo, who stated this during a press conference in Akure, said the people of the southern district should look inward for a credible candidate from the area who will not deprive the southern district of two terms.
He advised the party leadership not to field a candidate whose credibility or certificate would be challenged or questioned by the opposition political parties.
Odimayo said, “Ondo South earnestly yearns for a two-term of eight years for whoever will represent the district as governor from February 24, 2025.
“The law does not permit the incumbent governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, to be sworn in as governor three times if he intends to run for two terms because he was sworn in as deputy governor alongside his late principal, Rotimi Akeredolu, on February 25, 2021.”
According to the House of Representatives member representing Okitipupa/Irele Federal Constituency, re-electing Aiyedatiwa will deprive the southern senatorial district of eight years after the central and northern senatorial districts have spent eight years each.
He said, ” If we bring anybody who is short of eight years, the party would struggle to win in the next election; if you flag off someone who would not do eight years, people would not support. Our leaders should not be sentimental because people are watching
“We, the southerners, will ensure that APC doesn’t produce anybody that would be questionable or challenged by the opposition party.
“We are going to address our challenges as a party; we are not going to make mistakes; APC is a predominant party in Ondo State.
“Basically, it is the turn of the South, and the party would not play with it, we want the party to utilise this opportunity, we have eight years, we will not tolerate anything less than eight years for the south. So, we should be very careful not to go into trap with our enemies.”
Odimayo said his ambition is fueled by his passion for service and a vision for a brighter future for the state, saying his aspiration is rooted in a commitment to unity, progress, and inclusive governance that prioritises the needs and aspirations of every indigene.
He said that “Ondo State is endowed with immense potential, from its rich cultural heritage to its natural resources. However, we cannot ignore the challenges that have hindered our progress and prosperity.
“Issues such as inadequate infrastructure, unemployment, healthcare disparities, and educational gaps require urgent attention and innovative solutions.
“As a son of Ondo State, I am aware of these challenges, and I am prepared to tackle them head-on with your support.
“My aspiration is not just about winning an election; it is about ushering in a new era of progress and development for Ondo State.”
He however, promised to give priority to education where every citizen of the state will have access to quality education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
He promised to declare a state of emergency on education if given the APC ticket and eventually emerged as governor, saying that with a firm commitment to resetting the educational system, it would help to ensure quality and accessible education for every child in Ondo State.
He noted that state natural resources would be harnessed to create jobs and stimulate economic growth.
“I pledge to prioritise the safety and security of every resident of Ondo State. I am committed to strengthening Amotekun and fostering seamless collaboration with other security agencies to ensure a safer environment for all.
“Access to quality healthcare is a fundamental human right, and no indigene of Ondo State should be denied this essential service.
“As Governor, I will prioritise healthcare reform aimed at expanding access to primary care, upgrading healthcare facilities, and recruiting and retaining skilled healthcare professionals.
“I will also champion initiatives to address public health challenges such as maternal and child mortality, infectious diseases, and non-communicable diseases.
“Recognising the pressing healthcare needs of our people, particularly in the face of chronic diseases like hypertension, I vow to provide accessible and free healthcare services, placing the well-being of every resident of Ondo State at the forefront of my administration’s agenda.”
“Our youth are the future of Ondo State, and investing in their education and empowerment is paramount. I am committed to revitalising our educational system, from primary schools to tertiary institutions, by improving infrastructure, enhancing curriculum, and providing scholarships and vocational training opportunities.
“Additionally, I will prioritise youth empowerment initiatives that equip young people with the skills and resources they need to succeed in a competitive global economy.”
On agriculture, he said, “Agriculture is the backbone of our economy, and rural communities play a crucial role in sustaining our agricultural sector. I am committed to implementing policies and programmes that promote modern farming techniques, provide access to credit and markets, and improve rural infrastructure such as roads and irrigation systems.
“By prioritising agriculture and rural development, we can enhance food security, create employment opportunities, and reduce poverty in rural areas.
“I aim to revolutionise our agricultural sector by mechanising it by 80%, thereby boosting economic growth, ensuring food sustainability, and creating employment opportunities for our youth.
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