Benson Enikuomehin, a former representative of Ondo at the Niger Delta Development Commission, has warned that if governor Lucky Ayedatiwa is chosen as the APC candidate, the party is at risk of losing the upcoming governorship election in Ondo to the PDP.
Aiyedatiwa became the governor of the state in December 2023, following the death of his former boss, Rotimi Akeredolu.
Enikuomehin, a former Senior Special Assistant to the late Akeredolu, stated during a press briefing on Thursday that selecting the current governor would only allow the Ondo South Senatorial District to have a single term, as the constitution does not permit him to run for another term.
He also mentioned that this decision would be favorable to the PDP or Ondo Central Senatorial District, which is next in line in the zoning arrangement.
Enikuomehin explained that while the people of the district were already rallying support for Aiyedatiwa to have the position zoned to their district as soon as possible, the opposition party was preparing to take advantage by presenting a candidate from the south who would serve for eight years in office.
He explained, “If Ondo South is allowed to take charge, they would have eight unbroken years, but Ondo Central is working to support the incumbent because Ayedatiwa, according to the constitution of Nigeria, can only contest one more election. And by the law, when you are sworn in to take over the remainder of the tenure of your boss, you can only contest for one more election. So, if he is supported and wins, then Ondo Central will say it is now our turn. So, that means four years are lost.
“This is why many of them are coming out and rallying, not because of their love for the man, but because it is their turn and they will have it quickly. This is why observers are saying not to disrupt this process. Mr. Ayedatiwa is a gentleman, but will the people of the south not be shortchanged? That is essential. For the APC, the decision in that regard will enable the PDP to claim they want eight years and can present their candidate from the south, and people can be very emotional.”
Enikuomehin expressed his support for Olusola Oke, a prominent candidate on the APC platform, describing him as someone with the courage and ability to govern the state.
He said, “We should look for someone who has the courage and ability to do a good job, without being sentimental. Olusola Oke is the only one not holding a government office. He has been funding his project effectively, unlike the others who rely on the state's resources.”
However, he also declared his intention to mobilize against a decision that would disadvantage Ondo South Senatorial District.
He said, “One of the ways the APC could risk losing the progress they have been building for over a year is to mistreat Ondo South. And I tell you, make no mistake about it, I will gather people and friends to express that we are not slaves. At least someone has held power for one year. Olusegun Agagu was the one who brought us into the fold. We were a people forgotten and not to be considered. He built roads. I did not insult anybody, everyone is qualified but we need to improve the lives of our people.
He urged the ruling APC to adhere to its guidelines and ensure that a trustworthy, reliable and dependable primary is carried out for the aspirants for the guber ticket.
