In a recent survey conducted by a coalition of APC support groups in Ondo State, findings has revealed that Olusola Oke and Wale Akinterinwa are emerging as the frontrunners in the race for the party’s gubernatorial ticket.
The survey, tagged “Opinion Poll Exercise, Survey And Assessments On The Potential Aspirant(S) For The Apc Ticket Ahead Of The Party’s Primary Election “ is aimed at assessing potential candidates for the APC primaries, engaged 3,600 individuals across the state.
With a focus on continuity in governance and alignment with the incumbent governor’s vision, the survey provided insights into public sentiment towards various aspirants.
According to the results, Olusola Oke garnered 65% support, with participants citing his age, political acumen, and familiarity with the state’s political landscape as key factors. Wale Akinterinwa received overwhelming support at 89%, praised for his effective management of state finances and foundational role within the current administration.
While other aspirants such as Jimoh Ibrahim and Lucky Aiyedatiwa also received notable mentions, their support levels fell short compared to Oke and Akinterinwa.
In light of these findings, the coalition has recommended that the APC throw its support behind either Olusola Oke or Wale Akinterinwa for the upcoming primaries.
The report signed by its National Coordinator, Dr. Muhammed Joda, and the National Secretary, Comrade Kingsley Ebhoma, said,
‘It is no longer news that a Governorship election will be conducted in Ondo State come November 21st, 2024 as announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the tenure of the present administration comes to an end.
Ahead of the election, political parties are preparing for the commencement of the sale of Form and Expression of Interest in preparation for their primary election to elect their governorship flag bearer.
“The ruling All Progressives Congress is not left out in this preparation. As at last count, over twenty-five Aspirants including the incumbent Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa have indicated interest to contest for the ticket of the party.
“As Support Groups of the party, we are duty bound to also ensure peace, unity and progress in the party at all levels, while promoting the activities/good governance. Hence our embarking on an independent opinion poll exercise, survey and assessment of the potential aspirant for the party’s ticket ahead of the party’s primary election as to avoid a repeat of the incidence that played out in Edo State where the party was almost being ridiculed for not conducting a transparent, free, fair and open all-inclusive primary elections.
“It is evident that Olusola Oke, Jimoh Ibrahim, Wale Akinteriwa, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Paul Akintelure, stands tall among other aspirants for the party’s ticket.
“However, this report presents findings from a survey conducted to assess potential candidates for the APC Party Primaries in April, with a focus on their ability to sustain continuity in governance – protect the legacies of AKETI.
“The survey aimed to gauge public perception and support for various aspirants based on their track records, political knowledge and alignment with AKETI’s mission and vison for the state. Utilizing a total of 3,600 individuals, with 200 sample, from the Local Government Areas (LGA) through random sampling of the voters’ register, this survey provides a comprehensive understanding of voters’ sentiments across diverse geographic regions within the state.
“Based on the above, our survey and findings are as follows:
Olusola Oke: Support: 65%.
Reasoning: Participants believe Oke can best protect Aketi’s interests due to his age, political acumen, and familiarity with the state’s political landscape.
Jimoh Ibrahim: Support: 35%.
“Reasoning: While some participants see potential in Ibrahim’s ability to protect Aketi’s legacy and pilot the affairs of the state, but concerns about his erratic behavior and inconsistency raise doubts about his suitability for managing Ondo state.
“Wale Akinterinwa: Support: 89%.
Reasoning: Akinterinwa garners significant support due to his effective management of state finances and his foundational role within the Aketi team, making him a strong candidate to protect Aketi’s legacy and ensure genuine continuity.
“Lucky Aiyedatiwa: Support: 25%.
Reasoning: Despite Ayedatiwa’s involvement in the party, his recent actions, including displacing Aketi loyalists, perceived conflicts with party leadership and some other anti-Aketi/anti people’s policies, diminished confidence in his ability to safeguard Aketi’s interests.
“Paul Akinyelure: Support: 5%.
Reasoning: Aspirants such as Akinyelure lack significant support, with participants deeming them unfit to lead the state at present.
“Isaac Kekemeke: Support: Below 2%
Reasoning: Aspirants such as Kekemeke lack significant support, with participants deeming them unfit to lead the state at present.
“Akinfolarin Mayowa: Support: Below 2%.
Reasoning: Aspirants such as Akinfolarin lack significant support, with participants deeming them unfit to lead the state at present.
“Recommendations:
Based on the survey results and assessments above, the following recommendations are proposed:
Support for Olusola Oke: Oke’s strong support base and perceived capability to protect Aketi’s interests make him a viable candidate for APC party support.
“Consideration of Wale Akinterinwa: With overwhelming endorsement and a proven track record, Akinteriwa emerges as another strong contender aligned with Aketi’s vision for the state.
“In light of the survey findings, it is recommended that the APC party throw its support behind Olusola Oke or Wale Akinterinwa for the upcoming primaries. Both candidates exhibit qualities that align with Aketi’s mission and demonstrate the capacity to protect the interests of Ondo state effectively, while remaining loyal and committed to the course of the party. This strategic endorsement aims to ensure the continuation of Aketi’s legacy and the advancement of the party’s objectives.
“Further monitoring and engagement may be necessary to navigate the evolving political landscape effectively. “
