Former Senator representing Ondo Central Senatorial District, Ayo Akinyelure, has denied any political understanding or alliance with Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa. Akinyelure, contesting the senatorial seat under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), made this clarification at a media briefing in Akure, the state capital. He stated that his recent interactions with Aiyedatiwa at the Government House were to seek clarification on his political future within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and to express gratitude for the governor's honesty regarding the party's senatorial ticket for the 2027 election.
According to Akinyelure, Governor Aiyedatiwa informed him directly that the APC senatorial ticket for Ondo Central had already been decided and that he would not be considered for it. This revelation led Akinyelure to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing the need to remain politically relevant and continue serving the people of Ondo Central. He emphasized that staying in active politics over a long period is crucial for a representative to be truly relevant to their constituents.
Akinyelure noted that when a political party refuses to grant a ticket, it becomes necessary to seek a platform where both personal and constituent interests can be protected. He revealed that the ADC approached him after his exit from the APC became inevitable, offering him a platform to continue his political aspirations. The party recognized his political value and presented a seat for him, which he accepted after the APC effectively ended his chances of returning to the Senate under its banner.
The former senator emphasized that integrity remains the highest calling in his political training, noting that the PDP gave him a mandate, which he completed before resigning his membership on May 30, 2023, after serving out his four-year term. He dismissed suggestions that his political moves were tied to any emerging coalition against the ruling party, insisting that his focus remains on effective representation rather than partisan alignments.
Akinyelure stated that any voter in Ondo Central who believes he represented them well should feel free to vote for him regardless of their political affiliation. He declared his preference for elective office over political appointments, explaining that elected officials enjoy greater stability and accountability to the electorate. Akinyelure noted that a federal appointment can be revoked at any time, whereas a democratically elected official can only be removed through death or constitutional processes before the end of their tenure.
The former senator said his quest to return to the Senate is also driven by a desire to complete legislative initiatives he left behind, including bills he is supposed to conclude. He maintained that regardless of who emerges as Nigeria's president in 2027, he possesses the experience and political network required to attract federal opportunities and development projects to Ondo Central. Akinyelure's decision to run for the senatorial seat under the ADC has been seen as a strategic move to regain political relevance.
Akinyelure's clarification on his political stance comes amid speculations of a possible alliance with Governor Aiyedatiwa. The development is being closely watched by political analysts and stakeholders in Ondo State, who are eager to see how the 2027 election plays out. With Akinyelure's denial of any political pact, the focus shifts to the electorate's response to his campaign and the eventual outcome of the election.
Key points
- Akinyelure denies any political understanding or alliance with Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa ahead of the 2027 election.
- Akinyelure joins the African Democratic Congress (ADC) after being told the APC senatorial ticket for Ondo Central had already been decided.
- Akinyelure emphasizes his focus on effective representation rather than partisan alignments.
