Isaacs Kekemeke, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Senatorial candidate for Ondo South in the 2027 general election, has affirmed that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa is supporting his political ambition.
Kekemeke, a former National Vice Chairman, South-West, of the APC, also dismissed reports of a rift between him and the governor, describing the claims as unfounded.
He spoke in a video footage obtained by The Nation on Wednesday where he also dismissed allegations that the governor was working against the interest of the party or involved in anti-party activities.
Kekemeke said his relationship with Aiyedatiwa remained cordial, adding that the governor had assured him of his support for his aspiration and the party.
According to him, there was no disagreement between him and the governor, contrary to speculations in some quarters.
‘I have been assured by the party that there’s nothing like anti-party activities. Mr Governor (Aiyedatiwa) has spoken to me and has assured me as a leader of the party that he’s with me and the party.
‘I look forward to celebrating victory in January, but it’s not over until it’s over. Let us keep working ‘ he said.
The clarification came amid growing speculation over the relationship between Kekemeke and Aiyedatiwa following reports that the governor may have shifted his support in the Ondo South senatorial race.
The reports gained traction after some APC leaders in the district backed Matthew Oyerinmade, a former APC chieftain, who is now seeking the seat on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
However, Kekemeke maintained that there was no friction between him and the governor and insisted that Aiyedatiwa remained supportive of his candidacy.
He further said that he remained focused on his campaign despite the allegations and negative reports surrounding his ambition.
‘I’m not distracted by anything that is negative. I’m more encouraged; the more people are supporting me. I want to plead with our party members that let us work together.
‘As a pioneer chairman, I need you. Those of us who built the party together, I need you. For the people of Ondo South, you need a great voice.
‘I am willing to give you that voice in the National Assembly and in Nigeria. What I ask for is: give me the microphone, and I’m going to speak into the microphone,’ Kekemeke said.
He, however, vowed to use his position, if elected, to draw attention to the challenges confronting the people of Ondo South, particularly environmental degradation and limited opportunities for young people.
‘Talking about the problems that face our people on a daily basis, the environmental challenges, lack of opportunities for our young men and young women, I’m going to speak for you.
‘I’ll be a good voice for you. Send me, and you can be sure that I’ll deliver,’ Kekemeke said.