Youths in Ondo have urged Governor Olusegun Mimiko to back a credible candidate for next year’s governorship vote, someone generally acceptable to the electorate.
Ondo Special Assistants Forum (OSAF) made the call saying both Mimiko and the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) need redemption after losing the presidential election in the state on March 28.
The counsel was jointly given in Akure by OSAF Chairman, Elias Matiminu; Secretary, Afolabi Olawole; and Publicity Secretary, Julius Alabi.
They warned the PDP not to repeat the mistake of the past and instead live up to its name by fielding someone of unquestionable character.
“The massive onslaught against the party by the new ruling party, APC (All Progressives Congress), is another factor responsible for the poor perception of the PDP,” the group said.
It urged the PDP to rebrand itself in the state ahead of the governorship election.
OSAF stressed that “we have not endorsed any candidate for now. When we know all the aspirants, then we would assess them carefully based on their antecedents.
“It doesn’t matter the person’s tribe or local government area. All we need is someone who is well exposed and has a passion for the state to take it to greater heights.”
OSAF Convener, Olarewaju Emmanuel, added: “What we are all clamouring for is a credible candidate and someone who is morally upright. We don’t want someone who doesn’t have an idea of what is going on in the state.”
The group reaffirmed its support for Mimiko’s administration in its quest to develop the state and warned politicians trying to foment trouble to back down.
