Nigeria: Aiyedatiwa Urges Disregard for Social Media Rumors Regarding Credentials

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has urged his supporters to dismiss rumors circulating on social media concerning his credentials. Addressing 130 traditional rulers who endorsed him as their preferred candidate for the upcoming All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election, Aiyedatiwa reassured his supporters to remain calm and not be swayed by gossip on social media regarding his academic records.

In his statement, Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized the importance of focusing on his candidacy and the developmental agenda for Ondo State, rather than being distracted by unfounded rumors. By addressing the concerns directly and urging his supporters to stay focused, Aiyedatiwa aims to maintain confidence and unity among his supporters as he prepares for the upcoming election.

Governor Aiyedatiwa, in recounting his educational journey from primary school to tertiary institution, vehemently refuted all false accusations regarding his academic record. He urged the traditional rulers and party loyalists to disregard the unfounded claims propagated by over-ambitious individuals and politicians on social media, accusing him of possessing fake certificates.Emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus and unity, Governor Aiyedatiwa rallied his supporters and party faithful to remain steadfast in their support for his administration.

He reiterated his commitment to securing the APC governorship ticket at the primary election scheduled for April 20th, 2024, and ultimately emerging victorious in the gubernatorial election slated for November 16th, 2024.The endorsement of Governor Aiyedatiwa by Oba Samuel Adeoye, the Chairman of the 130 kings in Ondo State, holds great significance as it demonstrates strong support from the traditional institution for his candidacy in both the primary and general elections in the state.

Oba Samuel Adeoye's endorsement carries weight not only due to his position as the chairman representing a significant number of traditional rulers but also because it reflects a collective decision by the traditional institution to throw its support behind Governor Aiyedatiwa.In Nigerian politics, the endorsement of traditional rulers is highly valued as it often influences the decisions of their subjects, who respect and hold their rulers in high esteem. Therefore, Oba Samuel Adeoye's endorsement serves as a rallying point for other traditional rulers and their communities to align themselves with Governor Aiyedatiwa's candidacy.

Furthermore, the traditional institution's endorsement adds legitimacy and credibility to Governor Aiyedatiwa's candidacy, bolstering his image as a candidate with broad-based support from various segments of society, including the grassroots.Oba Samuel Adeoye's endorsement signifies a pivotal moment in Governor Aiyedatiwa's political journey, providing him with a strong foundation of support from the traditional institution as he seeks victory in both the primary and general elections in Ondo State.

During the meeting, the traditional rulers presented several demands, including a request for 5 per cent of local government allocation to traditional rulers, provision of vehicles for enhanced mobility, periodic grading for Obas, healthcare support for sick rulers, and direct authority over their staff for disciplinary actions.Governor Aiyedatiwa responded by acknowledging and assuring the traditional rulers that their demands were duly noted. He stated that the issue of allocating 5 per cent of local government funds to traditional rulers was under consideration and pledged to address it within a week.

The governor expressed willingness to provide vehicles for traditional rulers in phases and agreed to place their staff directly under their authority, facilitating effective disciplinary actions.Regarding the periodic upgrade of Obas, Governor Aiyedatiwa affirmed the administration's commitment to reviewing and implementing upgrades as necessary.He highlighted the government's support for farmers, emphasizing that initiatives aimed at supporting farmers would also benefit those with farmland. He cited the recent distribution of maize as an example of measures taken to stabilize market prices.

Lastly, Governor Aiyedatiwa reassured the traditional rulers of the government's commitment to providing healthcare services for sick monarchs, demonstrating his administration's dedication to addressing the needs and concerns of the traditional institution.