Ondo poll: CAN meets Aiyedatiwa, declares three-day prayers

A few days before the governorship election in Ondo State, the governor and candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, promised to rule with the fear of God, if elected.

He spoke during his meeting with Christian leaders in Ondo State at St. David’s Anglican Cathedral, Ijomu, Akure, on Monday.

This was contained in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary Mr Ebenezer Adeniyan, on Tuesday.

He called on the Christian leaders across the state to pray for the state, particularly for the election.

Aiyedatiwa said: “I am one of you, a born-again Christian, and I understand the spiritual responsibilities that come with leadership.

“The Ondo State government is anchored on the body of Christ, and as such, we cannot afford to fail. I earnestly ask that you continue to pray for us, for wisdom in governance and for the upcoming elections to be peaceful and just.

“As we approach the crucial electoral period, I implore you to intercede for our state, for harmony, and for a smooth process that reflects the will of the people. We cannot underestimate the power of prayers.”

In response, the Chairman of the state chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Rev Fr Anselm Ologunwa, praised the governor’s prompt attention to issues concerning the Christian community.

He, however, noted that CAN remained non-partisan, with a primary mission to uphold Christian values.

“We appreciate your dedication to our concerns and your promptness in addressing matters that affect the body of Christ. Your leadership is indeed commendable.

“The body of Christ is non-partisan, our duty is to promote the teachings of Jesus Christ, regardless of political affiliations.

“We understand the vital role of leadership in shaping the future of our state and stand ready to support any leader who prioritises the people’s welfare,” he said.

He said the body needs a government that actively advocates for peace and harmony.

“Economic development and job opportunities must remain a top priority. We commit to praying for leaders who put the welfare of the people above all else,” he said.

The cleric also announced that the group had set aside three days for prayers ahead of the election day.

“The Christian community has set aside three days of intensive prayer, beginning on November 10, for the state and the election.

“We are praying for divine guidance and the peace of Ondo State. We trust that God will intervene.” Ologunwa stated.

TUC backs gov’s election bid

The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, Ondo State Council, has declared its support for the election bid of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress in the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the Independent National Electoral Commission had fixed November 16 for the Ondo State governorship election.

The State Chairman of the TUC, Mr Clement Fatuase, at the association’s congress in Akure, on Tuesday, said the unanimous decision was reached by both past and present leaders of the congress’ 23 active affiliate unions.

Fatuase praised the governor’s approval of N73,000 new minimum wage and the sponsorship of over 100 workers to the South-West Labour Summit in Ibadan.

The chairman said the recruitment drive for teachers in primary and secondary schools across the state, and the appointment of permanent secretaries and tutors-general were few of the Aiyedatiwa’s achievements.

“In a meeting held on Thursday, October 31, 2024, the activities of the present administration were critically analysed.

“Mr governor was rated excellent, compelling the congress to reciprocate the gesture for his dedication to workers’ welfare,” he said.

Fatuase urged the full implementation of the housing scheme with affordable land allocations for civil servants and the need for dedicated land to support civil servants interested in agriculture.

Responding, Aiyedatiwa expressed his gratitude to the congress for maintaining a harmonious relationship with his administration.

He commended the union for recognising his achievements in the few months since assuming office and emphasised that the achievements were driven by his commitment to the welfare of Ondo State.

Aiyedatiwa, while addressing the issue of salary payments, stated that the regular and timely disbursement of workers’ wages was not a favour but a fundamental right of the workers.

The governor pledged his administration’s continued support for training and capacity building to ensure that public servants delivered efficient and effective services.