Akinyelure Speaks Out As Fresh Claims Of 2027 Deal With Aiyedatiwa Surface

The African Democratic Party (ADC) candidate for Ondo Central Senatorial District, Senator Ayo Akinyelure, has dismissed reports suggesting that he reached a political agreement with Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Akinyelure made the clarification during a media briefing in Akure, the Ondo State capital, where he explained that his recent meeting with the governor was not a political negotiation.

The former senator said his discussion with Aiyedatiwa was primarily to seek clarification about his political future within the All Progressives Congress (APC), particularly regarding the party’s senatorial ticket.

Akinyelure said the governor informed him that the APC had already decided on the person it intended to give the Ondo Central senatorial ticket to. He said he appreciated Aiyedatiwa for being straightforward rather than making promises he could not fulfil.

He explained that the decision ultimately influenced his move to the ADC, saying he still had legislative responsibilities and unfinished work that he hoped to pursue if returned to the National Assembly.

Akinyelure said he had remained loyal to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) after completing his previous four-year mandate, despite pressure from some associates to leave the party following his failure to secure a return ticket.

He said he eventually resigned his PDP membership in May 2023, with the resignation taking effect in June after the completion of his tenure.

The two-term senator said the ADC subsequently approached him and expressed interest in having him join the party, which he said provided an avenue to continue pursuing his political ambitions and representing the interests of his constituents.

Akinyelure maintained that his decision to contest under the ADC was based on his desire to remain politically relevant and continue his legislative work. He said voters in Ondo Central could support him regardless of their political affiliation if they believed he had adequately represented the district.

The former senator also said he had several legislative matters he intended to pursue if elected, describing the completion of unfinished work in the National Assembly as one of his priorities.

While addressing the forthcoming elections, Akinyelure said he had encouraged Governor Aiyedatiwa to ensure that voters’ choices were respected during the electoral process.

He also stated that, if elected to represent Ondo Central, he would be willing to work with whichever candidate emerges victorious in the presidential election.

The comments come amid heightened political activity in Ondo State ahead of the 2027 elections. Aiyedatiwa has separately denied allegations that he is backing opposition candidates against the APC, while urging party members to avoid anti-party activities.