Ahead of the 2024 governorship election in Ondo State, the immediate past Commissioner for Finance, Wale Akinterinawa, has revealed that the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu discussed with him the possibility of becoming the next governor of the state.
Akinterinawa, during an interview on a national television monitored by LEADERSHIP, stated that the late governor advised him to prepare to succeed him upon his return from a trip to Germany.
The former Commissioner for Finance, who has not yet declared his governorship ambition on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), was greeted by residents from Abuja at the Akure Airport. He mentioned that he would soon officially announce his intention to run for the state’s top position.
“Late Governor Akeredolu had a discussion with me in his office and told me he would want me to take over from him. I don’t remember the exact date of our discussion, but it happened immediately after he returned from his trip to Germany. He prayed for me and I am aware he told certain people about his desire,” Akinterinwa said.
Regarding his chances of securing the APC ticket for the November 16, 2024, Governorship election, amidst strong competition, including the new governor, Akinterinwa expressed confidence, citing the people’s trust in him.
”Well at the appropriate time, I will officially announce my intention because it is not in doubt that I am still making further consultations but I can assure you that I will get the ticket. The people of Ondo state are with me, and I am very confident that I will win the APC primary,” he said..
Addressing the crowd at the airport in Akure, Akinterinwa expressed gratitude for their support, despite his delayed arrival due to poor weather conditions.
“I came late due to a delay in flight as a result of poor weather. A lot of flights were cancelled due to the weather. We had the opportunity to fly when the weather became clear enough and approved by the authorities.
“I know you’ve been waiting for about 8 hours to express your appreciation to me after my meritorious service to our state for about seven years. Your gesture is a testimonial that when you do well, people will appreciate you.
This is a manifestation of better things to come.”
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