Among the top contenders, Ajayi Agboola of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has centered his campaign on stability and continuity, drawing from his experience as a former deputy governor.
This focus positions him as a relatable choice for constituents familiar with his policy history.
TimesNow.com.ng has put together key facts that shed light on Agboola’s background and campaign objectives as he aims to secure Ondo’s top office.
Ajayi Agboola, the former deputy governor of Ondo State, emerged as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the 2024 governorship election in Ondo.
Known for his prior tenure under the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, Agboola has a complex political history, marked by his brief departure from the PDP to join the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) during the 2020 governorship race, which he ultimately lost.
Agboola later rejoined the PDP and participated in the 2023 Senate race, though he was unsuccessful.
In April 2024, Agboola secured the PDP’s nomination with a decisive victory in the party’s primaries, obtaining 264 votes, well ahead of his closest rival, Kolade Akinjo, who received 157 votes.
The primary election was conducted peacefully with 621 delegates, signifying robust support within the party.
Agboola’s running mate is Samuel Ogunmusi, selected for his experience and complementary skill set, expected to strengthen the PDP’s bid to lead Ondo.
Agboola faces formidable competition from key contenders across major parties. From the All Progressives Congress (APC), Lucky Aiyedatiwa, also a former deputy governor under Akeredolu, has entered the race and is paired with Olayide Adelami as his running mate.
Representing the Labour Party (LP), Ayodele Olorunfemi seeks to appeal to young voters and advocates for progressive reforms, with Olabisi Adu as his running mate, as reported by Vanguard.
The Social Democratic Party (SDP) fields Olusegun Oyebolu, who brings extensive public service experience and has chosen Gift Dada as his deputy, The Punch reported.
Earlier, TimesNow.com.ng reported that ahead of the Ondo State governorship election, former presidential candidate Peter Obi has said the Labour Party’s candidate, Hon. Sola Ebiseni, has the right potential to ensure holistic development in the state.
Obi, undeterred by the numerous challenges facing Nigeria’s electoral system, also reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to democracy.
The former Anambra state governor made this call in a statement shared via his official X social media handle.
Source: TimesNow.com.ng
