The struggle for the seat of power in Ondo State, witnessed a new twist on Monday, as the candidate of the opposition Social Democratic Party (SDP), Mr. Peter Fasua stepped down from the race to support the Incumbent Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, saying that “ I share the same vision with Akeredolu”.
The SDP member representing Idanre/Ifedore Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Adefisoye, also endorsed Akeredolu for reelection, saying “Mr. Governor has assured me that he would develop Idanre”.
Adefisoye, popularly known as Small Alhaji, who addressed his supporters in Idanre on Monday, said “after consulting very widely with the leaders of SDP and other important leaders within and outside of Ondo State, especially the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, I have decided to support the APC. But I want to assure that this decision was primarily taken for the sake of continuous development in Idanre/Ifedore federal constituency.
“We must realize that politics is all about interests and should not be played with emotions. Now that your leader has declared support for Akeredolu, we should agree with this decision and work for the victory of Akeredolu. This election is going to be operation win your units.
“But, I can assure you all that Akeredolu will win on Saturday. I also want use myself as collateral for Governor Akeredolu. I want to assure you that the governor will fulfill all his promises on developmental projects in Idanre and Ifedore. I should be blamed in the unlikely event that Governor Akeredolu did not fulfill his promises.” Adefisoye, said.
On his own part, Fasua, a native of the capital city of Akure, said “I am stepping aside from the race because my vision and that of our party is identical with the vision of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu.
“When I crosspoliniate with the Governor during our debate on sunday, I realized that most of my vision for the state was already expressed and initiated by Governor Akeredolu. He has done well. I am joining his train so that I can be part of the positive history the Governor is creating.
“So, we are collapsing our structure, offices, and everything at our disposal together to ensure that the plans to industrialise our state becomes a reality”, Fasua said.
The SDP Chieftain also donated his campaign office and buses to the Akeredolu’s campaign organisation.
Responding, Akeredolu thanked Fasua and SDP for placing the interest of the state above their personal interest, promising never to betray their trust in him.
“Be rest assured that I will not disappoint you. My administration shall continue to deliver for the people. I will never derail.” the Governor, said.
Ojelabi, the publisher of Freelanews, is an award winning and professionally trained mass communicator, who writes ruthlessly about pop culture, religion, politics and entertainment.
