Olusola Oke, a prominent governorship aspirant in Ondo State, officially declared his intention to vie for the ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming gubernatorial election. Oke made the announcement during a press conference at the APC secretariat in Akure on Monday.
Addressing party leaders and supporters, Oke emphasized that it is his turn to lead Ondo State, citing his long-standing political career and experience in various capacities of governance.
“I have come here today to notify you of my intention to throw in my cap again into the contest for the governorship seat of Ondo State on the platform of APC,” Oke declared.
The aspirant called on the APC National Working Committee (NWC) to ensure a free, fair, and transparent primary election. He stressed the importance of conducting a primary poll that reflects the democratic values of the party.
“I want to plead that you should conduct a free, fair, and transparent primary,” Oke urged.
Recounting his political trajectory, Oke drew attention to the fact that he had contested for the gubernatorial position three times, highlighting his resilience in the political landscape.
“I’ve contested for this position three times; I lost like Buhari, and the fourth time is my turn,” Oke asserted. “I am the only one that can say that, nobody else can say that.”
Oke also pointed out the geographical rotation of the governorship seat in the state, stating that it is now the turn of the southern senatorial district, to which he belongs.
“I am told and I’m glad that the ticket is shifting to the south, so whose turn is next? It is my turn,” he declared confidently.
The seasoned politician underscored his vast experience, having served as a lawmaker, party administrator, and in various executive positions. Oke expressed confidence that his wealth of experience would enable him to effectively govern the state.
“There are three ways you know a politician; it is either you’ve been a lawmaker, you’ve been a party administrator, or you’ve occupied an executive position. I have occupied the three,” Oke stated. “I will hit the ground running immediately I am elected.”