Tinubu Targets 1.2 Million Votes in Ondo State for 2027 Election
President Tinubu demands massive electoral support from Ondo voters during a campaign rally in Akure.
1Campaign Rally in Akure
President Bola Tinubu officially launched his campaign efforts in Ondo State during a major rally held in Akure this Wednesday. Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, the administration set a specific target of 1.2 million votes for the upcoming January 2027 presidential election, aiming to solidify his political standing within the region.
2Voter Statistics and Targets
The state currently holds 2.1 million registered voters, with approximately 1.8 million having collected their Permanent Voter Cards. The administration expects a significant turnout, aiming for a majority of these cardholders to support the APC. Officials emphasized that the 1.2 million target is achievable given the current voter registration data available.
3Criticism of Political Rivals
During the rally, the administration dismissed opposition figures Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, claiming they lack the necessary consensus and leadership capacity. The president mocked their digital-focused campaign strategies, contrasting them with the physical presence of the APC. He specifically questioned their ability to govern Nigeria based on their past political records.
4Local Leadership Commitments
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa pledged to deliver at least one million votes for the president. He highlighted that federal reforms and key appointments, including three ministers from the state, have directly benefited the local population. This commitment aims to demonstrate the state's loyalty and appreciation for the current administration's ongoing development initiatives.
5Internal Party Mobilization
Campaign Council Director General Abdullaziz Yari urged party members to aim even higher than the one million mark. He stressed that the benefits accrued by Ondo State justify a stronger electoral performance. Party leaders were encouraged to unite and resolve internal bickering to ensure a cohesive and effective campaign strategy moving forward.
6Call for Unity
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele addressed reports of factionalism within the Ondo APC, calling for immediate reconciliation. He delivered a direct message from the president, instructing party members to recognize Governor Aiyedatiwa as the primary coordinator. This move is intended to streamline campaign efforts and prevent parallel activities that could dilute electoral support.
7High-Profile Attendance
The rally featured significant political figures, including former governors Olusegun Mimiko and Adams Oshiomole, alongside Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Their presence underscored the importance of the Ondo region in the broader national electoral strategy. The gathering served as a display of party strength and a platform for reinforcing the administration's national agenda.
8Strategic Electoral Significance
Securing Ondo State is a critical component of the APC's 2027 re-election strategy. By demanding specific vote counts and enforcing internal party discipline, the administration is attempting to preempt opposition gains. The success of this mobilization effort will likely serve as a bellwether for the party's overall performance in the upcoming national polls.