Ondo State Patriotic Movement for Democracy, have been urged to support former nigerian Lawmaker and Ondo South Senatorial aspirant Rt Hon Mayowa Akinfolarin to fill the vacant Ondo South Senatorial District seat.
Peak Newspaper reports that the vacancy follows the nomination of Senator Jimoh Ibrahim for an ambassadorial posting, leaving the district without representation in the upper chamber.
In a statement released by the Ondo State Patriotic Movement for Democracy, the group urged party leaders to view this moment as an opportunity to reward long-standing loyalty within the APC.
They argued that Akinfolarin’s unwavering commitment to party ideals makes him the most credible and deserving candidate.
The statement—signed by Convener Hon. Arije Ariyo, Secretary-General Hon. Alabi Julius, and Deputy Women Leader Hon. Febisola Akinniranye—praised Akinfolarin as a dedicated party loyalist whose contributions have been central to the APC’s growth in Ondo State. They said his consistency and commitment should now be recognised at the national level.
The group also stressed that Odigbo Local Government, where Akinfolarin hails from, remains “the most politically marginalised” of the six local government areas in Ondo South. Despite its size and economic relevance, they said Odigbo continues to be overlooked in federal political representation.
“Odigbo has done its part in the state. It has only produced Senator Meroyi many years ago and is currently the only local government in Ondo South without any federal appointment,” the group lamented, describing the imbalance as both unfair and unsustainable.
They added: “Odigbo Local Government has only one state appointment and none at the federal level. This imbalance cannot continue. Odigbo deserves equitable representation, and supporting Hon. Akinfolarin is a step toward restoring that balance.”
The group further highlighted Akinfolarin’s contributions to community development, noting that many of his efforts predate election cycles. According to them, his service reflects genuine commitment rather than political opportunism, making him a trustworthy choice for the Senate position.
“Akinfolarin came second in the governorship primary election; others went to court, but he didn’t join them. And in the last presidential election, Odigbo Local Government came first in the Southern Senatorial District and second in the state.
“It may surprise you that the former House of Representatives member has never, at any time, challenged the outcome of any primary in court like others, a sign that he places the party above personal interest in all he does.” it noted
Hon. Ariyo emphasised that Akinfolarin has consistently strengthened APC structures across Ondo South, building support networks that have benefited the party during crucial electoral contests. He added that honouring such loyalty would boost morale within the party.
The Deputy Women Leader, Hon. Akinniranye, described Akinfolarin as “tested, trusted, and deeply connected to the grassroots,” insisting that his candidacy would ensure stability and cohesion within the party. She argued that overlooking him could deepen internal divisions at a sensitive time.
Concluding their appeal, the movement said presenting Akinfolarin as the APC’s choice would reinforce the principle of rewarding dedication while finally giving Odigbo its rightful place in federal representation. “He is a party man to the core,” they said. “Allowing him to contest is not out of place; rather, it is long overdue.”
