Kehinde Fajobi
As the Ondo State governorship election draws near, multiple All Progressives Congress (APC) groups have declared support for the Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate, Benson Akingboye, calling him “a beacon of light for Ondo State.”
The endorsement, backed by Ondo Patriots, Ondo APC Solidarity Group, Jagaban Coalition, and APC Youth League, was announced in a statement led by Comrade Dele Oyewo of Ondo Patriots on Sunday.
According to the statement, these APC groups view the nomination process of APC’s candidate, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, as flawed.
They voiced disappointment, stating, “The endorsement of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa is not only an anomaly against electoral laws, which require free and fair primaries, but also a disservice to the dignity of our nation.”
They highlighted Akingboye’s achievements, particularly in business, and hinted at his “unique spiritual advantage” for leadership in Ondo, asserting that his qualities represent an ideal alternative.
“With Benson Akingboye at the helm in Ondo State, we are confident he will bring about transformation,” the statement continued, noting the potential revitalisation of industries like Oluwa Glass and Olosunta Oil Palm.
The groups dismissed rumours of SDP members defecting to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) as “fabrication” and “a total distortion promoted by PDP governors with a malicious agenda.”
The statement concluded by emphasising Akingboye’s long standing public service and the groups’ belief in his ability to drive development for Ondo State.