The governorship candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party in Ondo state, Hon Olugbenga Edema, has described the defection of associates of former governor Olusegun Mimiko to the ruling All Progressive Congress as “jumping into a sinking ship”.
Edema stated: “They have exhibited a high degree of ignorance about the status of the APC in Ondo State. If they have done the due diligence, they would have known that by virtue of the INEC report issued following the April 20, 2024 primary, and by the clear provisions of the Electoral Act, 2022, the APC does not have a legitimate candidate for the November 16 gubernatorial election in Ondo State.”
He added: “They would also have known that the people of Ondo State have rejected the party, and this regime judging from public opinions. The outcome of the #EndBadGovernance and end hunger protest is a clear manifestation of this fact, which is obvious even to the blind.”
Edema further stated: “The Almighty God himself has rejected this regime and has torn the Ayedatiwa’s government. God does not support an unrighteous government. Inspite of the humongous amount of money from the Federation account entering the coffers of the state since June 2023, no tangible and visible development can be attributed to this regime.”
He criticized the APC-led government, saying: “Ayedatiwa’s government has simply weaponised the state resources by deliberately pauperising the Ondo State people. It is waiting for the day of the election to begin to give handouts to the electorates. They have failed because the people of Ondo State are now wiser.”
Edema described the defection as “akin to jumping into a sinking Titanic ship. It is quite unfortunate that these individuals have chosen to align themselves with a sinking ship.”
He emphasized: “By the provisions of the Electoral Act of 2022, it is clear that the APC does not have a valid candidate in Ondo State. The primary election that led to the emergence of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa as the APC candidate was marred by irregularities and did not adhere to due process as confirmed by INEC.”
Edema expressed confidence in the NNPP’s chances of victory, saying: “Come November 16, the NNPP will emerge victorious. We are committed to offering the people of Ondo State credible and transparent leadership that prioritises their welfare above all else.”
