Ahead of Saturday’s Ondo State gubernatorial election, the family of late former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu has endorsed Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate Bamidele Akingboye.
The endorsement was made public at a press conference in Akure, where he urged voters to consider integrity over party loyalty, Vanguard said.
The representative of the Akeredolu family, Mr. Oluwafemi Akeredolu, stressed the importance of electing leaders who are truly committed to development.
Akeredolu, the late governor’s younger brother, advocated for candidates who prioritize the growth and welfare of the state.
“I am the youngest brother of the late Mr. Oluwafemi Akeredolu, we share the same father and the same mother. Our family is known for our honesty and determination. I am known as ‘Talk and Do’. His brother was a committed APC member but this election is not about the party,” he said.
He criticized party politics, saying, “Parties sometimes choose candidates who are unfit for public office. The time has come to vote for individuals based on merit, not party loyalty.”
Mr. Akeredolu highlighted Mr. Akingboye’s vision for Ondo’s underutilized resources, especially Ondo Port. He noted that the port, one of the state’s most promising assets, remains undeveloped despite its potential to be a major economic driver.
“The port in Ondo State is one of the deepest and allows entry and exit of large vessels.My brother obtained the port certificate before passing but his progress has stalled.Now he is handing it over to foreigners. That is what we are promised. We cannot allow that to happen. Change is needed in Ondo State and that is why we support the SDP and Akingboye,” he stressed.
He asserted that if elected, Mr. Akingboye would begin his term by investing his personal funds for the development of the state, saying, “Mr. Akingboye will immediately start spending his personal funds for the state. He’s a leader with a vision, not just for himself, but for his people.”
Naija News understands that Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa, who took over after Mr Akeredolu’s death, is contesting on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).